Normally the funeral home notifies the Social Security Administration.
You don't need anything special to file a tax return.
If your spouse passed in 2023, you can file as you normally would as if they had not passed, either as Married Filing Jointly (usually) or Married Filing Separately.
Next year, when you file for Tax Year 2024, you will change your filling status depending on whether you have dependent children at home and whether you remarry.
We are very sorry for your loss.
If you have any additional questions, we are here to help.
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