taxes for deceased parent

[happywanderer2]

One of the last sad duties I have to perform for my mother, who died this past Sept, is to complete her tax return. One of the problems I see is that since her will did not have to go through probate there is no designee to sign her tax return. I am her executor but I don't know if I can sign her return or not. Anyone know what I should do in this case?

 

[lisah0711]

You should ask your accountant or call the IRS. When this happened with my Dad the IRS told us to write DECEASED by his name on the top of the return and on the signature box but that was in 2005 and it may have changed by now.

Good luck and sorry for your loss!

 

[pooh6890]

Most tax returns are done electronically now. There is a form you will sign for your accountant giving them permission to file the tax return electronically. As executor, you are the person that will sign the form. The 1040 will show deceased in the signature area and the date of death. I am very sorry for your loss.

 

[PrincessSuzanne]

I had to do this in 2009, after my mom passed away. I say if it is going to be a rather easy claim, do it yourself electronically, that is what I did, I used TaxAct, nothing to sign.

Since you are the executrix, all you need is the will, if you go somewhere to have them donw and you will likely be signing the documents.

Suzanne