Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things a family can go through, and the responsibilities that come after can feel overwhelming. While grieving and making funeral arrangements, important tasks like filing taxes after a death can easily be forgotten. Unfortunately, missing these steps can lead to more stress, delays, and financial problems during an already difficult time. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the basics of filing taxes after the death of a loved one, including what’s required and when to get help.  

When is Filing Taxes After Death Necessary? 

Filing taxes after a death is usually necessary if the person had income before they passed away. This can even apply to distributions from retirement funds or social security depending on the person’s account setup or income level. Unfortunately, tax obligations do not end after death and will typically fall to one of the surviving family members or an appointed executor. 

What Counts as Taxable Income After a Death? 

Taxable income may extend beyond a simple W-2 from full-time employment. Some other potentially taxable income can include:  

• Retirement distributions 

• Pension payments 

• Social Security benefits 

• Investment income 

• Business or rental income 

• Other taxable earnings received before death 

For most people, the final federal income tax return is due on the standard tax filing deadline, usually April 15 of the following year. For example, if someone passes away during December 2025, their final return would generally be due in April 2026. This will include income earned from January first through the date of death. 

Who is Responsible for Filing Taxes After a Death? 

There are a few people who might be responsible for filing a deceased person, and who the responsibility falls to will depend on the structure of the will, the family members involved, and who has access to the correct information. The responsible party may be: 

An Executor or Personal Representative 

If the deceased person had a will, the executor named in the will is generally responsible for handling tax filings and other financial matters. Once formally appointed, the executor has legal authority to gather financial records, communicate with the IRS, and file required returns. 

A Court-Appointed Administrator 

If there is no will, the probate court may appoint an administrator to manage the estate. The administrator performs many of the same duties as an executor, including filing tax documents and paying outstanding liabilities. 

A Surviving Spouse 

In cases where the deceased person was married, the surviving spouse may file a joint tax return for the year of death. This is common when finances were shared and can simplify the filing process. 

Other Representatives 

In some situations, a trusted family member, accountant, or attorney may assist with tax filings, particularly when the estate is complex or significant assets are involved. 

Regardless of who handles the filing, it is important that the responsible person gathers accurate financial records and submits the required forms on time. 

What Happens if Taxes are Not Filed Properly? 

If taxes are not filed correctly after someone dies, it can cause financial and legal problems for the surviving family. Even though the person has passed away, any unpaid taxes still need to be handled. 

 Some possible problems include: 

• Penalties and extra charges from the IRS 

• Delays in settling the estate or probate process 

• Tax liens placed on estate property or assets 

• Less money being passed on to beneficiaries 

• A higher chance of an IRS audit or review 

In some situations, the executor or person handling the estate could also be held personally responsible if they give away estate assets before paying known tax debts. 

When to Get Help 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of filing taxes after a death, you’re not alone. Losing a loved one is such a difficult process, and dealing with their taxes, especially if they are complicated, just adds unneeded stress.  

If you’re ready to get help, PaulHood is here for you. With over 30 years of experience, our team is ready to walk with you through the process of making sure your loved one’s taxes are properly filed. Click here to schedule a call with one of our team members today.