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Level 2
posted Apr 13, 2022 12:18:05 AM

Deceased Return Signature - Syntax Question

 

Wanted to verify that a non-spouse, non-court-appointed representative signature on a deceased's 1040 paper filing would be correct/acceptable as follows:

 

Jane Doe

, Personal Representative     (where "Jane Doe" is the representative's signature, and the remainder is printed)


Or is the representative's name not supposed to be included and instead put just the words "Personal Representative" as the actual signature?

 

Please, only replies from those with first-hand experience - filers or CPA's who have actually done this before - not looking for generic responses that don't address the specific syntax question posed above.

 

Thanks.

0 3 708
3 Replies
Alumni
Apr 13, 2022 4:42:11 AM

Sentinel,

 

https://www.taxcpe.com/blogs/news/deceased-taxpayer-who-signs-the-tax-return

 

says Your Name followed by Personal Representative

Level 2
Apr 13, 2022 8:00:57 AM

@hbl3973  Thanks, however I already saw that article and it is the ONLY thing I found anywhere that explains the alleged proper syntax.  Am hoping to hear from a filer or CPA who has actually done this before and can confirm the correct/acceptable syntax.

Expert Alumni
Apr 14, 2022 10:08:43 AM

The proper way to sign is "Your signature, personal representative".

 

This is the applicable excerpt from Publication 559:

"Signature. 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.”"