Man abuses wills and probate system

Those who are interested in wills and probate matters have been told that a man has abused the benefits system by claiming public money and failing to declare an inheritance.

Michael Reay, of Malvern, received both council tax benefit and housing benefit for several years, despite receiving a £40,000 inheritance.

The 45-year-old did not tell Malvern Hills District Council about his windfall or when a partner moved into his home, although he was claiming the benefits as a single individual.

Now, he has been prosecuted by Wychavon District Council, part of the South Worcestershire Revenues and Benefits Shared Service.

Worcester magistrates have instructed him to pay costs of £800 and a victim surcharge of £15 due to the wills and probate deception.

"Benefits are for residents who genuinely need help, not for people exploiting the system at the expense of others," shared services manager Deborah Goldfinch said.

One person who arguably did this was Samantha Bennie, who claimed state benefits while hiding a £43,000 inheritance, Thisislincolnshire.co.uk reported.

Published by Hannah Carr