Thank you so much for the response. The return (not yet mailed) is being filed on paper. The tax professional said that only a 1040 was needed for 2020 because all 2020 income was received prior to the decedent's death on December 11. Is your understanding different?
Might I return to the refund problem? Because there is no need for estate probate due to the trust, there is no court-appointed personal representative, but the IRS will issue the refund only to a court-appointed personal representative (form 1310). CATCH 22.
Surely this is a common situation. How is it usually solved?
I see on the 1040 that I can enter bank information for direct deposit to the decedent's bank account. This would be ideal, but how would the IRS know that the given account is actually the decedent's?
I don't want to abandon the refund, but it appears there may be no other choice. Any counsel would be most appreciated. Thank you.
