The executor of the estate must file an IRS Form 1040, also known as an estate tax return, or the “Final Estate Tax Return.” The executor must report the deceased’s federal and state income taxes. More information on this responsibility can be found in IRS Publication 559. In addition, the executor is responsible for preparing the deceased’s federal and state income tax returns. This article will provide you with information on how to prepare this important document.
When should you file the estate tax return? This tax return is due nine months after the deceased person’s death. In certain situations, the executor or trustee may request an extension of six months. Before filing the estate tax return, the deceased person must be registered with SARS and coded as a deceased estate. The process can be done in person or electronically by using eFiling. Once the registration is complete, SARS will issue the estate a new tax reference number that links to the deceased person’s existing income tax reference number.
If the deceased person’s estate was left to an executor or administrator, the executor must prepare a Final Estate Tax Return to report their estate to the IRS. The executor or administrator of the estate is responsible for securing appraisals of the estate’s assets, contacting creditors, and preparing and filing the final estate tax return documents. It is important to complete these steps promptly. The Personal Representative must also complete the distribution process by the specified deadline.
Joan Cable was appointed executrix of the Boeving Trusts. She was under the impression that the estate tax return was due one year after Ethyle’s death. The truth is, however, that the return was due nine months after Ethyle died. During this time, she learned about the estate tax responsibilities and obligations. Although she was appointed as executrix, Joan died in early 1979. This case will go to trial.
An executor should make a Portability Election if the deceased’s will did not name one. However, if there is an appointed executor, the executor must make a Contrary Portability Election. Unless the executor makes a contrary portability election, the estate tax return must be filed before the due date. If a Qualified Domestic Trust is created by the decedent, the executor’s DSUE amount will be recalculated.
Generally, the deadline for filing the Final Estate Tax Return is 15 days after the end of the current year. If you die with over $600 in taxable income, the estate will be taxed separately. In addition to paying taxes on the assets transferred, an estate will pay taxes on the income it earned. However, there is a way to avoid paying taxes on the income that the estate receives. In most cases, the surviving spouse can file the Final Estate Tax Return on the decedent’s behalf.
