I've been contacted about a family member's debt
Generally, someone else's debt isn't yours to pay just because you're related. Here's how to handle being contacted about a relative's debt.
This guide helps you
- Understand when a relative's debt is and isn't your responsibility
- Know how to respond without taking on a debt that isn't yours
- Protect a vulnerable family member if needed
- Find free help for everyone involved
6 min read
What's happening
Being related to someone doesn't usually make their debt yours. As a general rule, you're only responsible for a debt if you signed for it, guaranteed it, or held a joint account. Collectors sometimes contact relatives to pass on a message or because of mistaken details.
If a family member has died, debts are normally dealt with through their estate, not by relatives personally — but this can be complex, so get advice.
Your first steps
Be clear and careful about your own position:
- Don't agree to pay a debt that isn't yours.
- Ask why you're being contacted and what your supposed connection is.
- Avoid sharing the family member's private details without their consent.
You can simply say the debt isn't yours and ask them to direct contact appropriately.
Step by step
- Find out why you've been contacted. Mistaken identity? A message to pass on?
- Confirm your role. Did you guarantee or co-sign anything?
- Don't take on responsibility for a debt you're not liable for.
- Support the family member to get their own advice if they're struggling.
- Seek advice for estate situations after a death.
Your rights
You're not obliged to pay another adult's debt simply because you're related, unless you've taken on legal responsibility for it. Collectors must not mislead you into thinking otherwise. Responsibility after a death depends on the estate and varies by situation and state — get advice. See oversight bodies in our directory.
Where to get free help
Both you and your relative can get free, confidential help. The National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 can advise on responsibility and next steps. Our help centre has more guidance too.
Key takeaways
- You usually aren't responsible for a relative's debt unless you signed for it.
- Don't agree to pay a debt that isn't legally yours.
- Debts after a death are normally handled through the estate.
- Free advice for everyone involved is on 1800 007 007.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay my relative's debt?
Generally no, unless you co-signed, guaranteed it, or held a joint account. Don't agree to pay a debt that isn't legally yours.
A collector keeps asking me to pass on a message — what should I do?
You're not obliged to act as a go-between. You can decline and ask them to contact the person directly through proper channels.
What happens to debts when someone dies?
Debts are usually dealt with through the deceased person's estate, not by relatives personally. Seek advice, as these situations can be complex.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Your situation is unique and rules can vary by state and over time — for advice on your circumstances, speak to a free financial counsellor (National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007) or get legal help.
Know your options, know your rights
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