When a family member dies, the grief is soon followed by paperwork. An inheritance in Catalonia has its own steps and deadlines, and getting it right saves you trouble and money. Here is what you need to know.
Accepting or renouncing the inheritance
Heirs can accept the inheritance, outright or under the benefit of inventory, or else renounce it. The benefit of inventory limits liability for the deceased's debts to the value of the assets inherited: it is a prudent option when the deceased's financial situation is not well known, because it prevents you from having to answer for those debts out of your own assets.
The documents you will need
- Death certificate.
- Certificate of last wills (which states whether there is a will and before which notary it was granted).
- Authorised copy of the will or, if there is none, the deed declaring the heirs.
- Documentation of the assets (title deeds, bank accounts, vehicles...).
The deadlines: watch the tax
The deadline to file and pay inheritance tax is 6 months from the date of death, extendable by a further six months if requested in time. Missing the deadline can mean surcharges and interest, so it is worth keeping in mind from the very first moment.
Inheritance tax in Catalonia
In Catalonia there are significant reductions and rebates for the closest relatives (spouse, children, parents). The tax for these relatives is often low, but it depends on the degree of kinship and the value of the estate. It is worth calculating carefully before accepting, because the result can vary greatly from one case to another.
The municipal capital gains tax
If the estate includes urban real estate, you must also settle the municipal capital gains tax (IIVTNU) with the corresponding town council, which has its own deadline. It is a procedure separate from inheritance tax that should not be overlooked.
A piece of advice
Organise the documentation as early as possible and seek advice before accepting. Some decisions, such as the benefit of inventory or certain tax reductions, cannot be undone afterwards, and a poor choice can cost money that is never recovered.
At Barnils & Díaz Advocats we help you organise the inheritance and complete every procedure within the deadline. Learn about our Civil Law & inheritance area or book a consultation.
