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

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

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 Louisiana income tax return (IT-540) must be filed for income earned through the date of death.La. R.S. 47:103, 47:300 et seq.; Act 11 (2024 3ES)Verified May 31, 2026 If the estate earns income during administration, a federal fiduciary return (Form 1041) and Louisiana fiduciary return (IT-541) may also be required.

The final federal and Louisiana income tax returns are due may 15 following year of death (louisiana uses may 15, not april 15) — la. r.s. 47:103.La. R.S. 47:103, 47:300 et seq.; Act 11 (2024 3ES)Verified May 31, 2026 The fiduciary return is due may 15 (calendar year) or 15th day of 5th month after fiscal year close; automatic 6-month extension under r.s. 47:103.

No. No tax clearance required. Louisiana estate transfer tax abolished for deaths after December 31, 2004. Inheritance tax repealed by Act 822 of 2008 (no receipts issued since 1/1/2012).La. R.S. 47:103, 47:300 et seq.; Act 11 (2024 3ES)Verified 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 Louisiana executor checklist covers all filing responsibilities in order.

No. Louisiana 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 Louisiana compares with the death tax calculator.

Tax Filing After Death in Louisiana

After a death in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana executor checklist tracks all deadlines in order.

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Louisiana Estate Planning Resources

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

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Louisiana 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.

Louisiana

File final income tax returnLa. R.S. 47:103, 47:300 et seq.; Act 11 (2024 3ES)Verified May 31, 2026

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

Form: IT-540

Deadline: May 15 following year of death (Louisiana uses May 15, not April 15) — La. R.S. 47:103

File Form R-6642 (IT-710) if non-spouse claims refund. Automatic 6-month extension to file under R.S. 47:103 (no request required); extension does not extend time to pay. Flat 3% rate effective 1/1/2025 per La. R.S. 47:32 (Act 11, 2024 3ES).
Download FormFile Online

File estate income tax returnNot requiredLa. R.S. 47:103, 47:300 et seq.; Act 11 (2024 3ES)Verified May 31, 2026

A fiduciary return is only required if the estate earns income above the filing threshold (Any Louisiana-source income for estate or trust — La. R.S. 47:300 et seq.).

Tax Clearance Not RequiredLa. R.S. 47:103, 47:300 et seq.; Act 11 (2024 3ES)Verified May 31, 2026

No tax clearance required. Louisiana estate transfer tax abolished for deaths after December 31, 2004. Inheritance tax repealed by Act 822 of 2008 (no receipts issued since 1/1/2012).

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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