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Home→Tools→Post-Death Tax Filing Guide→Alabama

How Do I File Taxes for a Deceased Person in Alabama?

Find out which tax returns you need to file after someone dies. See state-specific forms, deadlines, and whether tax clearance is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

At minimum, a final federal income tax return (Form 1040) and a final Alabama income tax return (Form 40) must be filed for income earned through the date of death.Ala. Code § 40-18-29(a); § 40-18-19Verified May 31, 2026 If the estate earns income during administration, a federal fiduciary return (Form 1041) and Alabama fiduciary return (Form 41) may also be required.

The final federal and Alabama income tax returns are due april 15 following year of death.Ala. Code § 40-18-29(a); § 40-18-19Verified May 31, 2026 The fiduciary return is due april 15 (same as federal form 1041).

No. Estate tax waivers no longer required for deaths after December 31, 2004.Ala. Code § 40-18-29(a); § 40-18-19Verified May 31, 2026 All tax obligations must be satisfied before making final distributions.

Yes. Estate size does not affect the requirement to file a final income tax return. A final Form 1040 is required regardless of estate value if the deceased had income. What smaller estates typically avoid is the federal estate tax return (Form 706).

The executor named in the will (or the court-appointed administrator) is responsible for filing the final income tax return and any estate tax returns. If the deceased was married, the surviving spouse can file a joint federal return for the year of death. For trust assets, the successor trustee handles fiduciary tax returns. The Alabama executor checklist covers all filing responsibilities in order.

No. Alabama does not impose a state estate tax or inheritance tax. The primary tax filings after death are income tax related (final return and, if applicable, estate income tax return). See how Alabama compares with the death tax calculator.

Tax Filing After Death in Alabama

After a death in Alabama, both federal and state tax returns must be filed. A final income tax return covers the deceased's income through the date of death, and a separate fiduciary return may be needed if the estate earns income during administration.

With no state estate or inheritance tax, tax filing after death in Alabama focuses on income tax obligations. This is a significant advantage compared to the handful of states that impose death taxes.

Filing deadlines depend on the type of return. Final income tax returns are generally due April 15 of the year following death. Estate tax returns, where applicable, are typically due nine months after the date of death. The Alabama executor checklist tracks all deadlines in order.

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Alabama Estate Planning Resources

In-depth guides covering Alabama probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.

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Alabama Tax Filing Checklist

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Federal

File final income tax return26 USC 6012(b)(1)

A final federal income tax return is required for income earned from January 1 through the date of death.

Form: IRS Form 1040

Deadline: April 15 following year of death

Write "DECEASED" across the top. If filing jointly with surviving spouse, include both incomes. Attach Form 1310 if claiming a refund.
Download FormFile Online

File estate income tax returnNot required26 USC 6012(a)(4)

IRS Form 1041 is only required if the estate earns $600 in gross income or more during administration.

File estate tax returnNot required26 USC 6018; 26 USC 6075(a)

The estate value ($0) is below the federal exemption of $15,000,000. IRS Form 706 is generally not required.

Alabama

File final income tax returnAla. Code § 40-18-29(a); § 40-18-19Verified May 31, 2026

A final state return is required for income earned through the date of death.

Form: Form 40

Deadline: April 15 following year of death

File for January 1 through date of death. Check "Deceased" box on Form 40. Use Form 1310A to claim any refund on behalf of deceased.
Download FormFile Online

File estate income tax returnNot requiredAla. Code § 40-18-29(a); § 40-18-19Verified May 31, 2026

A fiduciary return is only required if the estate earns income above the filing threshold (Net income over $1,500 (Ala. Code § 40-18-19)).

Tax Clearance Not RequiredAla. Code § 40-18-29(a); § 40-18-19Verified May 31, 2026

Estate tax waivers no longer required for deaths after December 31, 2004.

This tool provides general information about tax filing requirements after death. Tax situations vary based on individual circumstances. Consult a licensed tax professional or CPA for advice specific to your situation.

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