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

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

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 Massachusetts income tax return (Form 1) must be filed for income earned through the date of death.M.G.L. c. 62, § 10; M.G.L. c. 65C, §§ 2A, 14Verified Apr 15, 2026 If the estate earns income during administration, a federal fiduciary return (Form 1041) and Massachusetts fiduciary return (Form 2) may also be required. Estates exceeding $$2,000,000 must also file a Massachusetts estate tax return.

The final federal and Massachusetts income tax returns are due april 15 following year of death.M.G.L. c. 62, § 10; M.G.L. c. 65C, §§ 2A, 14Verified Apr 15, 2026 The fiduciary return is due april 15 (calendar year); 6-month extension if 80% of tax paid (form m-8736).

Yes. Estate tax closing letter issued after M-706 accepted and payment processed. For real property transfers before return is due, file Form M-4422 (Application for Certificate Releasing Massachusetts Estate Tax Lien). For nonresident decedents: Form M-NRA (Nonresident Decedent Affidavit). M.G.L. c. 65C, § 14.M.G.L. c. 62, § 10; M.G.L. c. 65C, §§ 2A, 14Verified Apr 15, 2026 Distributing assets without clearance may create personal liability for the executor or trustee.

Yes. Massachusetts imposes a state estate tax on estates exceeding $$2,000,000.M.G.L. c. 65C § 2AVerified Apr 15, 2026 This is separate from the federal estate tax. Estates above the state threshold must file a state estate tax return even if no federal estate tax is owed. See the full breakdown with the Massachusetts death tax calculator.

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) and the Massachusetts estate tax return (for estates over $$2,000,000).

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 Massachusetts executor checklist covers all filing responsibilities in order.

Tax Filing After Death in Massachusetts

Tax obligations in Massachusetts include filing the deceased's final state and federal income tax returns. If the estate generates income (interest, dividends, rent) before distribution, a fiduciary return is also required.

Massachusetts imposes a state estate tax on estates exceeding $2,000,000M.G.L. c. 65C § 2AVerified Apr 15, 2026. This threshold is separate from the federal exemption, so some estates owe state tax even when no federal tax is due. The Massachusetts death tax calculator estimates the combined liability.

Missing tax deadlines can result in penalties and interest that reduce the estate's value. The executor checklist for Massachusetts includes all filing dates so nothing is overlooked.

SimplyTrustSimplyTrust Editorial·Updated April 15, 2026

Legal Sources

  • M.G.L. c. 65C § 2A

Data sourced from Massachusetts statutes and official state code. How we research.

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

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