E-file or File by mail -- Fed return w/ Form 1310 for tax year 2020?

[blackrock]

My mother passed away in 2021, so 2020 will not be her final return, and I'm in PA, by the way.  I have completed my mother's Federal 2020 return, stating her date of death in 2021, and was prompted by TT to fill out Form 1310, indicating I am to be the person claiming the refund that is due.  I have been reading conflicting info as to whether I may e-file the 2020 Federal return, which will include Form 1310, OR if I should mail in a paper return and enclose a signed 1310.  I know the paper return will take much longer to be processed, but am concerned that if I e-file, the return may be rejected.  And/or does it make any sense to BOTH e-file and mail-in file a paper return with the Form 1310?  Please advise asap.  Thanks in advance.

[HollyP]

If have not already provided the IRS with a court certificate showing that you are the personal representation, then you can e-file her return, and you will need to mail in Form 1310 along with a copy of the certificate to the address where you would have mailed her tax return. 

But, if you have already provided the IRS with the certificate or no personal representative will be named then you can e-file Form 1310.