My husband passed away unexpectedly in November 2018 should I have received 1099 for his government pension?

[SweetieJean]

Did you get one for 2018 or 2019?

[jcoop212]

Yes, I did in my name.  Oh my, I had a brain lapse (lol) because I realize it is what was paid out.  My concern is that I sold our home and relocated in 2019.  I had my taxes done and didn't realize that my husband wasn't claimed just my mother as we cared for her in 2018 until his death.  They have filing status as Head of Household instead of Qualifying Widow.   If I'm correct a spouse can be claimed for 2 years after the death?  The same company is preparing my taxes and I believe an amended tax return is required, am I correct?

[SweetieJean · Accepted solution]

You do not claim your spouse as a dependent.  Rather, you file Joint, which you should have done for 2018.  Qualifying Widow(er) is a filing status that can be used for 2019 and 2020 if you have a child, stepchild, or adopted child you claim as your dependent.   If you have another type of dependent (such as Mother in Law) , then you may qualify as Head of Household instead.

This is is a forum for Turbotax users, so please ask your tax prep company to explain why they handled it the way they did.

[jcoop212]

Thanks and I appreciate your time 

[jcoop212]

SweetieJean,

I wanted to thank you again for the information and clarification of using my spouse for my tax returns.  Also referring me back to my tax preparer and the reason was just as you explained.

[SweetieJean]

Glad I could help.