The estate return is filed in completely different software. CA has an unusual set of rules regarding the deceased which requires asking information about the estate. I am very sorry for your loss.
The state of CA says that you can file a joint return in most cases.
It is those unusual cases that the program has to watch out for. CA says:
Surviving spouse/RDP
You may file a joint return if:
- You’re a surviving spouse/RDP
- The decedent did not file a return
- You did not remarry during the same tax year that your spouse/RDP died
- The estate did not appoint an administrator or executor or there was not one appointed by the due date of your return
If you want to file your return joint, with no information, you must select, Yes, I am filing as surviving spouse and then hit continue without filling in anything else. I am not sure you qualify based on what you and CA say. Please double check your circumstances and the rules.
You can download the estate software.
You can also contact the CA FTB at (916) 845-3048 for concerns and questions.
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