Key Steps and Legal Advice from Ivanova Legal Solutions
Accepting an inheritance in Bulgaria may seem like a routine process, but it often comes with hidden risks. Along with valuable assets, you could also inherit debts or legal obligations. That’s why it’s crucial to understand what to check before accepting an inheritance in Bulgaria – and to conduct all necessary legal and financial verifications before making any formal declarations.
Based on our legal practice at Ivanova Legal Solutions, here’s a detailed guide on how to assess an inheritance in Bulgaria before accepting it:
- Obtain a Certificate of Inheritance and a Death Certificate
The first step in checking an inheritance in Bulgaria is obtaining the certificate of inheritance and the death certificate. These documents are essential for proving your legal status as an heir and for proceeding with further checks. A lawyer can request these on your behalf with a notarized power of attorney.
2. Check the Real Estate Register
A core step in what to check before accepting an inheritance in Bulgaria is verifying any real estate owned by the deceased. This includes identifying properties, checking ownership status, and investigating any encumbrances such as mortgages, liens, or foreclosures.
3. Central Credit Register (BNB)
Before accepting an inheritance, you should review the Central Credit Register held by the Bulgarian National Bank. This registry shows any existing loans, credit obligations, or financial risks. Access requires a notarized power of attorney.
4. Central Debtor Registry (BAIL)
Another essential verification step is checking the Central Debtor Registry through the Chamber of Private Bailiffs. This reveals whether there are any ongoing enforcement proceedings or unpaid debts that could impact the estate. It’s a key part of evaluating risks before inheritance acceptance.
5. Bank Account and Safe Deposit Registry (BNB)
Check whether the deceased held bank accounts or safe deposit boxes. This national registry requires a notarized power of attorney for access. Once you identify the institutions, you can contact them for balance information and details about possible account freezes or garnishments.
6. Local Municipality Check – Taxes and Fees
Every comprehensive guide on what to verify before accepting an inheritance in Bulgaria includes checking with the municipality where the deceased last resided. Unpaid property taxes, garbage collection fees, and other municipal obligations may pass to the heirs.
7. National Revenue Agency (NRA)
The Bulgarian National Revenue Agency provides information on unpaid taxes, social security contributions, and other public debts. These liabilities can be inherited, so this step is critical in avoiding financial surprises after accepting the estate.
8. Utility Providers (e.g., Toplofikatsiya, Water, Electricity)
Utility debts can be passed on to the heirs as part of the estate. Be sure to check with providers for any unpaid bills or accumulated balances. Failing to do so could result in unexpected claims against the inherited property.
9. Accepting an Inheritance with Power of Attorney
If you are abroad or unable to handle the legal steps yourself, Bulgarian law allows you to appoint an attorney to act on your behalf. This is a safe and convenient option when navigating what to do before accepting an inheritance in Bulgaria. Your power of attorney should specifically authorize:
- Obtaining certificates and official reports
- Filing inheritance declarations
- Conducting property, financial, and debt checks
- Settling outstanding debts or managing legal proceedings
Accepting an Inheritance “Under Inventory”
If you’re uncertain about the financial state of the estate, consider accepting the inheritance under inventory. This legal option limits your liability to the value of the assets received and protects you from personal responsibility for any hidden debts. You must file this within three months of becoming aware of your inheritance rights.
Legal Support from Ivanova Legal Solutions
At Ivanova Legal Solutions, we assist clients through the full inheritance process in Bulgaria. From obtaining the required documents to conducting legal checks and protecting your interests, our team ensures a secure and informed inheritance decision.
Remember, an inheritance is both a right and a responsibility. Knowing what to check before accepting an inheritance in Bulgaria is the key to protecting yourself and your assets.
