@SCHUETZ1619 wrote:
I understand, but that's part of the problem.
The instructions to form 1310 read: "For purposes of this form [1310] , a personal representative is the executor or administrator of the decedent’s estate, as appointed or certified by the court."
You do not need to be appointed or certified by a court if you are the proper party to file the decedent's final return; you merely need to be the personal representative.
You are the personal representative if you are an executor, administrator, or are otherwise in charge of the decedent's property.
See https://www.irs.gov/publications/p559#en_US_2020_publink100099488
