Amend a return for the deceased

[monkeytax135]

Hi, how to sign an amended prior year federal tax return for a deceased relative.  Can I just sign my name for so-and-so  (the tax payer name?) or need to file additional forms.

The amended return only changed from "can NOT be claimed as a dependent" to "CAN BE claimed as a dependent".  Tax is 0 before and after the change.

My relative does not need to file any tax return and did not file for other prior years.  It was filed by mistake. Can it be withdrawn?

Thank you.

[JulieS]

No, the return can't be withdrawn, but it can be changed. Whether you can just sign the amended return depends on your relationship to the deceased and if a personal representative has been appointed. 

These are the IRS rules regarding signing for a decedent:

• If a personal representative has been appointed, that person must sign the return. 
• If it is a joint return, the surviving spouse must also sign it. 
• If no personal representative has been appointed, the surviving spouse (on a joint return) signs the return and writes in the signature area “Filing as surviving spouse.” 
• If no personal representative has been appointed and if there is no surviving spouse, the person in charge of the decedent's property must file and sign the return as “personal representative.”

If there is a refund, Form 1310 must be included in the tax return. If tax is owed, or there is no refund no additional forms are required. 

Since you are amending the return, if the original return did not show the taxpayer was deceased, be sure to indicate that. On the screen titled, Your personal info look for the question, "I'm preparing this return for a Taxpayer, who has passed away." Once you answer that Yes, you will be asked for the date.
 

I am very sorry for your loss. Don't hesitate to reach out again if you have more questions. 

[monkeytax135]

Thank you.  It looks like signing as a "Personal Representative" under" Your signature" is the best choice.

I don't have to put my name anywhere ?

[RobertB4444 · Accepted solution]

No, just the signature as personal representative.  Make sure the address is correct in order to reach you.  The IRS will reach out if they need any more information.

@monkeytax135