2024 taxes

[Smrob0521]

My huband passed away in 2023, leaving a lot of credit card debt that i wasn't aware of.  I live on my small social security, my only income. When i filed my 2023 taxes, i checked the box for last tax return for a deceased person (because i thought it would be and i planned to file a tax return just for me for 2024 on my social security income. Then yesterday i received a 1099C in his name. I live in California (a community property state). Tĥe form says he has to claim it as income. Do i have to file a joint return this year adding the $11,000 credit card as income? I can't afford to pay taxes, i don't have the money. Since the form is in his name, do i have to claim it on my return. 

[MaryK4]

You do not file a joint return for 2024.  You husband's final return was for 2023, the year of his death.  The Community Property stops at the time of his death- so at that time, there was a negative balance.  If you were not a joint owner of the credit card account, you do not have to report as income.  

Note: You may need to consult a probate attorney if the estate did not pay off debts before final distribution.