Kate Garraway reportedly received a £716k tax bill while caring for her husband Derek Draper, who continues to struggle with the effects of Covid.
The Good Morning Britain hostess, 56, is being pursued by the taxman for the six-figure bill after being compelled to close down her husband’s business in 2020, following his initial hospitalisation for the virus.
In the coming weeks, the total amount being pursued by the HMRC will be “battled out,” but the TV host’s acquaintances say she intends to pay the entire bill once a final figure is determined.
‘The figures are terrifying and Kate is of course worried about all the financial pressures, but she has to trust the process,’ a source told The Sun.
‘When it comes to an end, she is determined to pay back anything that’s owed.
‘It’s no secret that Kate has been battling to keep her husband alive and working through some heart-breaking situations in her personal life in recent years.’
They added: ‘Sadly as well as the emotional stress of Derek’s terrible illnesses the financial burden has also been crippling.’
According to the source, not only had the family lost one of its primary breadwinners, but the cost of Derek’s 55-year-old care had taken a “huge financial toll.”
‘One of the most complicated financial situations facing Kate was Derek’s company which she has eventually managed to get closed down with liquidators now in charge of resolving all the financial matters,’ they continued.
According to the publication, the bill pertains to Astera Aspera Ltd, a company founded in December 2011 that provided psychotherapy and other services.
It was formerly managed solely by psychotherapist Derek, but it was forced into liquidation in March of last year and HMRC estimated it owed £124,000 in taxes, a figure that has since increased.
‘HMRC have now submitted an estimated figure of £716,822 to the liquidators which has come as a surprise to all involved, because they haven’t yet viewed the company accounts,’ the source shared.
After being hospitalised and placed in a coma more than three years ago, Derek remained away from home for more than a year as he fought the infection.
He still battles with mobility and communication and requires 24-hour care.
Kate took over as one of the firm’s directors when her husband became unwell, but later had to close the business in order to care for Derek, their two children, and her television obligations.
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV.