Section 8 discover the wife was dead for 2 years

[Jo W.]

Hi,

I received a letter from Belmont (Sec 8 housing assistance in Buffalo NY) stating they are terminating the assistance as the wife passed away 2 years ago and they want me to pay back the money from the last 2 years (about 7k).

Some background: I inherited the tenants when i bought the property 14 month ago and was not aware that the wife who had the sec 8 assistance past away (the husband made me believe she is in the hospital). 

What are my options? I would never lie to a government agency and i feel like I'm getting "punished" instead of the one who actually lied.

[Nathan Gesner]

I would not get an attorney yet. Carefully read the letter. It may just be a courtesy copy of what was sent to the Tenant stating that the Tenant needs to repay them. Then call HUD and speak with them directly to ensure you're understanding it correctly.

If they are coming after you for the money, and refuse to back down, then you can hire an attorney.