Do I need a Final Return for my Father?

[grpen]

My father is in hospice care, which will probably last a few weeks before he passes away. He receives SS of $2700, and my mother receives $750. In addition, he has about $4,000 of income. He has not been filing returns, since he is below the limit. He has a negligible estate, that all goes to my mother. What happens on his death? Even though he is below the filing limit, do we need to file a final return? 

[MichaelDC · Accepted solution]

Sorry about your situation. Upon your father's death, your mother will probably receive your fathers Social Security benefit amount instead of her $750. (Contact Social Security Administration about that.)  Most other income, IRA, bank interest and stock dividends will probably revert to her. Also, if your father set up a pension to continue for your mother after he passed. 

Most of that is conjecture, however, with the numbers you were mentioning, your mother will not have to file either. A final decedent return is not necessary and follows the filing requirements as if he was alive.

Please feel free to post any additional details or questions in the comment section.