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April 4, 2025
Question

Can I file for my deceased father, even if my brother is the personal representative?

  • April 4, 2025
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views

My brother and I are the only children of my father who passed away in July 2024.  He did not have a will nor was he married, so we designated my brother as the personal representative of my dad's estate.

I am ready to complete my dad's taxes for 2024.

- Should I log into his previous TurboTax account to complete?

- Am I able to electronically sign, even though my brother is the official personal representative?

    1 reply

    AmyC
    Employee
    April 5, 2025

    Yes, if you can log into his account, you can prepare his return more easily. Be sure to mark deceased and enter the date. You must talk to your brother. I am sure he will be thrilled to have you do all the hard work. 

    • If there is a refund, you will attach 1310 and may need to attach court documents or whatever is required to get a refund. This is why he has to be involved. It is an electronic signature and since he is the representative, his information, approval, and documents may all be required.
    • If there is a balance due, the estate would need to cover it. Again, your brother's problem.

    The IRS has a quick  How Do I File a Deceased Person interactive assistant. It is very detailed and may give you additional information. You may need to file an estate return as well.

    I am very sorry for your loss.

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