In 2015, my father died and my mother has dementia. How do I sign joint tax return?

[Greenblue]

I have POA for my mother who has dementia. My father died in 2015. When I file the 2015 joint return for my mother and father, I will:

1.  write on the top Form 1040 “Deceased,” my father's name and date of death;
2.  I will attach a copy of the POA for my mother; and
3.  on Form 1040 page 2 sign my name followed by “POA.” Or do I sign my mother's name followed by my name and POA.

As to my father's signature line, do I leave this blank or do I sign as executor and attach the court document assigning me as executor?

[retiree · Accepted solution]

For your father you should write "Personal Representative" and sign your name (do not leave it blank)

For your mother you should write "POA" and sign your name (you should not have to send a copy of the POA unless the IRS asks for it.