Benefits and bequests

I am the executor for my mother's estate. My mother died six weeks ago and is sorely missed.
My mother made a small bequest, some £200, to an elderly friend and I have sent her a cheque for this amount but she has had to return it because she says that any money I send her will come to the notice of the council who subside her rent. It may also affect other benefits.
Now I have a legal duty to pay the bequest to her, not the council. It's also a moral question, she *has* to benefit from the bequest.
Is what she says true? If so I think I am going to have to find some way of giving her the money in kind.
All suggestions gratefully received.

Hi Brian,

Unless the £200 took your mother's friend over the capital limit for a benefits she rceives then it is unlikley to affect her benefits.

Good luck,

Steve

shes prob saying that as its a cheque and if she needs to supply benefits people with bank statements they would see it credited to her account. im sure if you gave her cash (if thats possible) then it should be viewed the same as any birthday or chrismas presents she would receive.

Hi,

Sorry about the loss of your mother.

Cash would surely be helpful if the lady in question is able to cope with cash. Or may be you could pay some of her bills with it in cash if she is not very able herself.

The benefit levels do count and are stringently adhered to if transgressed so you also need to adhere to them stringently.

Best wishes,

Fiona