{"id":37996,"date":"2026-05-05T10:02:03","date_gmt":"2026-05-05T09:02:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/"},"modified":"2026-05-05T10:03:30","modified_gmt":"2026-05-05T09:03:30","slug":"erfenis-met-schulden","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/","title":{"rendered":"Inheritance with debts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"s-section\">\n<div class=\"s-section-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-grid-toc_main gb-element-94926826\">\n<div class=\"s-section-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"s-sidebar-block-toc gb-element-bf14a539\">\n<p class=\"gb-text\">On this page<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#In_brief\" >In brief<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#What_is_an_inheritance_with_debts\" >What is an inheritance with debts?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#What_choices_do_you_have_as_an_heir\" >What choices do you have as an heir?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#How_does_the_procedure_for_acceptance_under_benefit_of_inventory_work\" >How does the procedure for acceptance under benefit of inventory work?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#When_is_there_tacit_acceptance\" >When is there tacit acceptance?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#What_if_there_is_uncertainty_about_the_extent_of_the_debts\" >What if there is uncertainty about the extent of the debts?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#How_does_the_distribution_work_if_there_are_debts\" >How does the distribution work if there are debts?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#Internationale_nalatenschap_met_schulden\" >Internationale nalatenschap met schulden<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#Example_from_practice\" >Example from practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#Trust_and_quality\" >Trust and quality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/#Are_you_unsure_about_your_choice\" >Are you unsure about your choice?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-section-main s-stack-2xl gb-element-6c76d265\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-15683c21 block-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_brief\"><\/span>In brief<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_an_inheritance_with_debts\"><\/span>What is an inheritance with debts?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An estate does not only consist of assets. An inheritance with debts occurs when the deceased leaves behind financial obligations in addition to assets. These can be known debts, but also obligations that only come to light later.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Examples of debts in an estate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mortgage or other loans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tax debts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Outstanding bills or invoices.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Personal debts or guarantees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Debts arising from a business.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In many cases, it is not clear at the time of death how large the total debt burden is. It is wise to first obtain full insight before making a choice. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_choices_do_you_have_as_an_heir\"><\/span>What choices do you have as an heir?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pure acceptance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With pure acceptance, you become a full heir. Both the assets and the debts of the deceased pass to you. In some cases, this can make you personally liable for debts that exceed the estate.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pure acceptance can also take place tacitly when you perform actions that indicate acceptance, such as selling, giving away, or using goods from the estate. Caution is advised, even if you have not yet made a formal choice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Acceptance under benefit of inventory<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/beneficiair-aanvaarden\/\">acceptance under benefit of inventory<\/a>, you accept the estate subject to an inventory of estate. Personal liability remains, in principle, limited to the balance of the estate. You are not liable with your own assets for debts that exceed the estate.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Acceptance under benefit of inventory entails formal obligations. The estate must be legally settled: creditors must be satisfied before assets are distributed. If these obligations are not met, personal liability may still arise.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Renunciation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Verwerping houdt in dat u geen erfgenaam wordt. U ontvangt geen bezittingen, maar bent ook niet aansprakelijk voor schulden. Verwerping heeft gevolgen voor de verdeling: uw aandeel gaat over op de andere erfgenamen of, bij ontbreken daarvan, op de staat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Special rules apply to minor heirs. In many cases, acceptance under benefit of inventory is legally required for minors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When a child has been disinherited via a will but still wishes to claim a portion of the estate, the above choice does not apply. A disinherited child can, in many cases, claim the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/legitieme-portie-onterving\/\">legitimate portion<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_the_procedure_for_acceptance_under_benefit_of_inventory_work\"><\/span>How does the procedure for acceptance under benefit of inventory work?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Acceptance under benefit of inventory follows a fixed procedure at the court:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Making a declaration. <\/strong><br\/>The heir files a declaration of acceptance under benefit of inventory at the registry of the court in the district where the deceased lived.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drawing up an inventory of estate. <\/strong><br\/>An overview is made of all assets and debts of the estate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Settlement. <\/strong><br\/>Debts are paid from the estate. Creditors are paid in the correct legal order. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Distribution. <\/strong><br\/>Only after all debts have been paid can any remainder be distributed among the heirs.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the circumstances, a liquidator may be appointed to oversee this process. Incorrect execution of the settlement can still lead to liability. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_is_there_tacit_acceptance\"><\/span>When is there tacit acceptance?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pure acceptance can occur without you making a formal declaration. In many cases, the court assesses whether there is tacit acceptance based on the actions performed by the heir. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Examples of actions that can be regarded as acceptance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Selling or giving away goods from the estate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Withdrawing money from the deceased&#8217;s bank account.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paying debts from personal funds while the estate is unmanaged.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjusting the home contents insurance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you unsure whether you have already taken steps that could count as acceptance? Timely legal advice can limit further risks. <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">Discuss your situation in a consultation<\/a>. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_if_there_is_uncertainty_about_the_extent_of_the_debts\"><\/span>What if there is uncertainty about the extent of the debts?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When it is unclear how large the debts are, it is wise to first gain insight before making a choice. Relevant information you can request includes: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bank statements and outstanding loans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tax returns and assessments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any guarantees or indemnities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Information from the Land Registry regarding mortgages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In some situations, heirs or executors refuse to share information. This can lead to a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/conflict-tussen-erfgenamen\/\">conflict between heirs<\/a>. Legal guidance may be necessary in such cases to gain access to the required information.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_the_distribution_work_if_there_are_debts\"><\/span>How does the distribution work if there are debts?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An estate can only be distributed after it is clear how the debts will be handled. In the case of acceptance under benefit of inventory, a legally mandatory order applies: first the settlement of debts, then the distribution of the remainder. An incorrect order can create legal risks for the heirs.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can read more about the distribution on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/verdelen-nalatenschap\/\">distribution of the estate<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Internationale_nalatenschap_met_schulden\"><\/span>Internationale nalatenschap met schulden<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the case of international estates, additional rules regarding jurisdiction and applicable law may apply. Which law applies depends on the deceased&#8217;s place of residence, the location of the assets, and any choices made in a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/testament\/\">will<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can read more about this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/internationaal-erfrecht\/\">international inheritance law<\/a>. For international estates, a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/second-opinion\/\">second opinion<\/a> is often valuable if an advisor or foreign notary is already involved. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Example_from_practice\"><\/span>Example from practice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After the death of their father, two children were uncertain about the extent of the debts. One of them had already sold goods from the house without realizing that this could have legal consequences. By seeking timely legal advice, it was assessed whether there was tacit acceptance and what steps were necessary to limit further risks. Based on a complete overview of the estate, it was possible to determine which route was most appropriate.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is general information and does not constitute individual legal advice. Every situation requires its own legal assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Would you like to have your position regarding an inheritance with debts mapped out? <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">Discuss your situation in a consultation<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<p><em>Written by <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><em>Carla Simmelink<\/em><\/a><em>, inheritance law lawyer at Simmelink Lawyers.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-advocaten-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\" id=\"advocaten\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Our_Attorneys_at_Law\"><\/span>Our Attorneys at Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Simmelink Lawyers team specializes in family law, International family law, and inheritance law.<br\/>The lawyers combine legal expertise with international experience.<br\/>Clients are guided by one dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire process and communicates discreetly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In complex financial matters or an international component, a specialized lawyer is important.<br\/>We strive for legally correct, practically feasible agreements that give you predictability and peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bd256ba\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-5dcdaabb gb-query-loop-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23938 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Carla Simmelink\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\">Carla Simmelink &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-29865 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Valerie Lingg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\">Valerie Lingg &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23939 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Eva Zaunbrecher\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\">Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-36349 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Sophia Sips\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-2048x2048.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\">Sophia Sips &#8211; Family Law Attorney<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-quotes-block gb-element-b0365a51 testimonial-block\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"s-quote-card-icon gb-media-5cab658b testimonial-icon\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/quote.svg\" title=\"quote\">\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-text testimonial-text\"><em><em>Clients are guided by a dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-author testimonial-author\">Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-be249d49 s-margin-vert-xl s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bfdf1120 gb-headline-text gbp-section__headline\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1e85dbd5 gb-accordion\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d1310856 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-19f7b745 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-19f7b745\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Do I have to accept the inheritance if there are debts?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-52e77243\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-52e77243\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-b299caa3 gb-headline-text\">No. As an heir, you have the choice to accept the estate purely, accept it under benefit of inventory, or renounce it. With acceptance under benefit of inventory, personal liability remains limited in many cases to the balance of the estate. Depending on the circumstances, renunciation may be the most appropriate choice.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3600de9f gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-ba8b12fe gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-ba8b12fe\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">What if I have already done something before making a choice?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-54bea308\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-54bea308\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-784447a0 gb-headline-text\">Certain actions can be regarded as tacit acceptance, even without a formal declaration. Examples include selling goods from the estate or withdrawing money from the deceased&#8217;s bank account. Whether this is the case in your situation depends on the nature of the action and the circumstances. Timely legal advice can limit further risks.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d7e7a6c6 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-361ea87d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-361ea87d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What are the consequences of acceptance under benefit of inventory for minors?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-c5948222\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c5948222\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-51ced355 gb-headline-text\">Special rules apply to minor heirs. In many cases, acceptance under benefit of inventory is legally required. The legal representative, usually a parent or guardian, acts on behalf of the child. Depending on the circumstances, permission from the subdistrict court is required.    Every situation requires its own legal assessment.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fc394c18 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8dd43315 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8dd43315\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can I still renounce the inheritance after acceptance under benefit of inventory?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-d545942c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d545942c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c9e904f9 gb-headline-text\">No. Once you have accepted under benefit of inventory, you can no longer renounce. You also cannot switch to pure acceptance after acceptance under benefit of inventory, unless you have not carried out the settlement correctly, which may still result in liability. The choice for acceptance or renunciation is, in principle, irreversible.    This is general information, not individual legal advice.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2769f6b3 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-1983797d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-1983797d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">When is a second opinion wise for an inheritance with debts?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-7c18bfac\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7c18bfac\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-ee70b14f gb-headline-text\">A <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/second-opinion\/\">second opinion<\/a> is particularly valuable if a notary or advisor is already involved and you have doubts about the chosen approach, if the debts are unclear or extensive, or if international elements are involved. An independent assessment provides insight into your position and the available routes. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Trust_and_quality\"><\/span>Trust and quality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Simmelink Lawyers is affiliated with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.advocatenorde.nl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Dutch Bar Association<\/a>.<br\/>Read more about our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/reviews\/\">reviews<\/a> or see how we work via our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/\">working method<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-element-eab29512\">\n<div class=\"s-btn-group gb-element-7313c4f1\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_you_unsure_about_your_choice\"><\/span>Are you unsure about your choice?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">The choice between pure acceptance, beneficial acceptance, or rejection of an inheritance can have far-reaching consequences for your private assets. In a consultation, we will map out your legal situation and discuss the possible routes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-text s-btn-primary s-btn--small\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Contact Us<\/a>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-text s-btn-primary s-btn--small\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/second-opinion\/\">Request a second opinion<\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">Or contact us by phone via: <a href=\"tel:+31303078732\">030 &#8211; 30 787 32<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/RaadvRechtspraak.svg\" alt=\"\" title=\"RaadvJustice\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-07670684\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"340\" height=\"105\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-07670684\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png\" alt=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" title=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png 340w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo-300x93.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On this page In brief What is an inheritance with debts? An estate does not only consist of assets. An inheritance with debts occurs when the deceased leaves behind financial obligations in addition to assets. These can be known debts, but also obligations that only come to light later. Examples of debts in an estate: &#8230; <a title=\"Inheritance with debts\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/erfenis-met-schulden\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Inheritance with debts\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":27868,"parent":25074,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-37996","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"infinite-scroll-item","7":"resize-featured-image"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/37996","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37996"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/37996\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38038,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/37996\/revisions\/38038"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/25074"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27868"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37996"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}