Family and joint debts

Unless clear lines are drawn, you may be unsure as to who is responsible for the payment of each portion of outstanding debt. Bennett Jones can explain what your rights are and the amount you owe under the terms of your debt agreements.

You can share an obligation to make payments such as utility bills, mortgages, rental contracts and shared bank accounts. In some cases, you will be liable for only half of the amount owed under the terms of these contracts – with your partner, spouse or relative being responsible for the payment of his or her share.

More commonly, however, you will be responsible for payment of the whole amount which is owed – even though you have agreed with the other party that the debt will be repaid in equal shares by both of you. This means that if your partner, spouse or relative fails to honour their side of the agreement, you will find yourself being called on to repay the full amount of the outstanding debt.

Why might such agreements prove problematic?

There’s no guarantee that everything will run as smoothly as was expected when the original joint debt was incurred. When family relationships or marriages break down, it is not uncommon for an individual to find they are called on to repay debts which they firmly believed would be repaid equally by them and their partner, spouse or relative. It is not uncommon for one of the parties in an agreement to be unable to or to refuse to, pay his or her share of the outstanding debts. This can often result in debts becoming unmanageable.

In some instances, the death of a partner or spouse can sadly also result in the surviving partner being called on to repay outstanding debts which then become unaffordable.

Start here

Bennett Jones has helped thousands of people solve their debt problems. We understand how stressful and difficult life is when you can’t pay your debts and your bills.

You can trust Bennett Jones to help you if you are struggling to pay your debts. We specialise in Individual Voluntary Arrangements – a legal solution that allows for unaffordable debts to be written off. With an IVA from our team, you will make affordable repayments to your creditors over a fixed period, with the remaining debt written off at the end.

Why choose Bennett Jones?

Bennett Jones Team

Get help with Joint Debts from Bennett Jones

We’ll help you understand the terms of all your financial agreements and help you move forward, clearly understanding your financial position and the options available to you. Our team are always on hand to offer information that can help you deal with debt – even if you’re on benefits. Contact us on 0161 9600054. Otherwise, leave us a message on the Bennett Jones contact form to request a callback.

Bennett Jones’ role in your financial recovery

Bennett Jones can investigate what you’re spending, both personally and if you are self-employed in your business, and help you understand whether an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) is the solution you need. Whether you need an IVA, an alternative debt solution, or simply information to help you organise your spending, we can deliver some peace of mind.

We are proud of our 5* Trustpilot reviews

March 2024, Charly Ryan

5stars

I would absolutely recommend Bennet jones to anyone who is struggling with debt. They are always happy to help and very friendly! They always reply in a timely matter and always help you come to a resolution to any problems you may have. If you cannot afford payments for any type of reason one month they will help you with this. They never judge you and are always there to help.

March 2024, Mr Amjad

5stars

Excellent company... Bennett jones is the best company they have taken away all the debts & all my worries.I definitely will recommend this company to friends & families. Their service is excellent. Reply in a few seconds. Now I can look after my family. I am especially thankful to Bennett & jones And Laura for helping me out of this …

March 2024, Sam Perry

5stars

If you’re in financial trouble don’t hesitate to reach out. From start to finish a very reputable caring company. Yes I’ve heard they charge but don’t really expect them to do it for free. We all have to get paid when we work. Be realistic. Very friendly and I felt they were thoughtful to my personal struggles. I would highly recommend them. Thank you to them, now have a good night's sleep

March2024, JA

5stars

Incredible all round! Absolutely incredible all round service. Caring, thoughtful, understanding and have your corner no matter what. It has been a journey but they have made everything so much easier and a weight has been lifted. I cannot stress enough, if you do need help, they are your guys and it is 100% worth trying if you are up to it. Thanks to all and for being there with me on this journey. You are treasures, thank you