Can you tell me if it is legal to put someone’s name on a tax document without their permission?
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Can you tell me if it is legal to put someone’s name on a tax document without their permission?
My deceased mother and her deceased brother inherited a farm from their parents. The property is now owned by their 6 heirs, 3 on each side. My brother, who is my mother’s judge appointed executor, has paid the property tax for the last 10 years and collected each share of property tax from the other 5 heirs. Recently, he called the tax assessor and put my name on the property tax records without my knowledge or permission. I understand my credit rating will be affected if I do not/cannot pay the whole amount on time (and try to be paid back by the other heirs after the fact). Would you advise me to hire an attorney and if so, a real estate lawyer?
Asked on November 13, 2015 under Real Estate Law, Texas
Answers:
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
If you are one of the heirs, then the property has been gifted (at least partially) to you, and all the heirs become responsible for future taxes. If you want to decline the gift and the responsibility that comes with the gift, you need to consult with a probate attorney. They can assist you with filing of the documents to get your name removed as a declined heir.
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