filing taxes for deceased relative

[phensley88]

Hello,

I filed an extension for 2023 taxes for my uncle who passed away and still cannot find his social security 1099.  I don't believe he would owe any taxes or be due a refund and wondered if I even have to file taxes for him.  He passed away in March of 2024, so I may confront the same issue next year. Thank you.

[evelynm]

I recommend you get his tax records and transcript for 2023.   The transcript will show what was reported to him for Social Security and any other reportable items like interest income.  As the personal representative of a deceased person, you should be able to request information from the IRS.   Here is the link to get started:   Request deceased persons tax records

The next step would be to request the transcripts:   IRS Transcripts

You can use the transcript information to prepare his tax return to determine if filing is required.

[quorumof1]

Sorry for your loss

Here's 2023 tax filing requirements with 2024 being nearly identical. Please take note that it refers to taxable income and social security under a certain range would not be taxable.

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/check-if-you-need-to-file-a-tax-return 

Taxes on Social Security 

If under the filing requirement then a 2023 tax return will not be required.

For 2024, it would be good form to file regardless and print deceased at the very top of form 1040. This will alert the IRS of final filing.