Am I liable for estranged father's debts and funeral?

A question about : Am I liable for estranged father's debts and funeral?

I just found out on Facebook that my dad has died. Newspaper article looking for next of kin.

I hadn't seen or spoken to him for about 6years, since my mum died because he mentally abused us both.

I know I probably sound heartless (I know I am in shock atm) but my family is struggling with money anyway & I'm worried about the cost of the funeral and any Provident debts he had.

I have one brother who I don't talk to cos he abused my mum & he moved away years ago, no-one knows where.

My dad has a brother, but they weren't in contact either.

I will shoulder my responsibility to clear out dad's bungalow and arrange the funeral (if I have to. I'm Manic Depressive) so my uncle doesn't have to. He had to bury their other brother a few years ago.

But will I get left with the funeral bill and any debts he had? TIA

Best answers:

• You are not liable for the funeral costs; these come out of the estate if there is enough money. If not then either the hospital or local authority will cover the cost of a basic public health funeral.
  You do not have to do any of the other tasks unless you want and if the estate is insolvent, it would be a good idea to leave it alone.
  Are you in touch with Uncle?
• OP, you can speak to whoever you like about the situation including his girlfriend to find out if there are any photos.
  There is nothing that can make you or his girlfriend personally liable for sorting out his estate or for any of his debts. His estate is liable and if it is insolvent or does not contain enough to cover funeral costs you cannot be forced to do anything or pay anything. Even if they have your name and address, you can simply tell them you are not willing to be involved (although it is probably best not to give them your address details!).
  Whoever he owes money to will have to decide what to do about his estate. It is unlikely they will be interested in his personal possessions (like photographs) unless they can be sold to pay debts.
• thank you all for your advice The carer/gf has been in contact & agrees to let the state bury him.