Do I Have to File Tax Returns for Someone Who Died?

Yes. A final federal income tax return (Form 1040) is required for income the deceased earned from January 1 through their date of death. If they lived in a state with income tax, a final state return is also required. These are due by April 15 of the year following death.

The final return (Form 1040) covers the deceased person's income before death. The estate return (Form 1041) covers income the estate itself earns after death, such as interest, dividends, or rent from estate assets during the administration period. They are separate filings with different deadlines.

Yes, estate size does not affect the requirement to file a final income tax return. Even a very small estate requires a final Form 1040 if the deceased had income. What small estates typically avoid is the federal estate tax return (Form 706), which only applies to estates exceeding $13.99 million (2025).

Tax clearance is formal confirmation from the state that all tax obligations have been satisfied. Some states require it before estate assets can be distributed to beneficiaries. Distributing without clearance in these states can make the executor or trustee personally liable for unpaid taxes.

It depends on the state. Some states require tax clearance before distribution. In states without this requirement, executors can make distributions but should retain enough assets to cover any potential tax liability. Filing all required returns first is the safest approach.

The executor (if there is a will) or administrator (if there is no will) is responsible for filing the final income tax return. If the deceased was married, the surviving spouse can file a joint return for the year of death. The executor or trustee files any estate income tax and estate tax returns.