Free IRS 1310 Form in PDF

Free IRS 1310 Form in PDF

The IRS 1310 form is a document specifically designed for individuals who are claiming a federal tax refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer. It ensures that the refund is correctly processed and directed to the appropriate party. To simplify the process of filling out this important form, click the button below.

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When a loved one passes away, navigating through the resulting financial obligations can add an overwhelming layer of stress on top of grief. Among these responsibilities might be the need to ensure that any outstanding tax refunds that the deceased was entitled to are properly claimed. This is where the IRS 1310 form steps into play, serving as a crucial document for those seeking to claim a refund on behalf of someone who has died. It's a bridge that links the legal right of the estate or surviving family members to the refund that was due to the deceased. The process encompasses not just the completion of the form itself but understanding when it's necessary, who is eligible to file it, and the specific instructions that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires for a smooth processing. While the form might appear straightforward at first glance, navigating its nuances is key to both respecting the wishes of the deceased and ensuring that financial matters are resolved with clarity and respect for legal protocols.

Preview - IRS 1310 Form

Form 1310

(Rev. December 2021)

Department of the Treasury

Internal Revenue Service

Statement of Person Claiming Refund Due a Deceased Taxpayer

Go to www.irs.gov/Form1310 for the latest information.

See instructions below and on back.

OMB No. 1545-0074

Attachment Sequence No. 87

Tax year decedent was due a refund:

Calendar year

, or other tax year beginning

, 20

, and ending

, 20

Please

print

or

type

Name of decedent. If filing a joint return and both taxpayers are deceased, complete a

Date of death

Decedent’s social security number

Form 1310 for each. See instructions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name of person claiming refund

 

Your social security number

 

 

 

 

Home address (number and street). If you have a P.O. box, see instructions.

 

 

Apt. no.

 

 

 

 

City, town or post office, state, and ZIP code. If you have a foreign address, see instructions.

Part I Check the one box that applies to you. You must also complete Part III below. See instructions.

A

Surviving spouse requesting reissuance of a refund check received in the name of both the decedent and the surviving spouse.

B Court-appointed or certified personal representative (defined below). Attach a court certificate showing your appointment, unless previously filed.

C Person, other than A or B, claiming refund for the decedent’s estate. Also, complete Part II.

Part II Complete this part only if you checked the box on line C above.

1

Did the decedent leave a will?

2a

Has a court appointed a personal representative for the estate of the decedent?

b

If you answered “No” to 2a, will one be appointed?

 

If you answered “Yes” to 2a or 2b, the personal representative must file for the refund.

3As the person claiming the refund for the decedent’s estate, will you pay out the refund according to the laws

of the state where the decedent was a legal resident? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If you answered “No” to 3, a refund cannot be made until you submit a court certificate showing your appointment as personal representative or other evidence that you are entitled under state law to receive the refund.

Yes

No

Part III Signature and verification. All filers must complete this part.

I request a refund of taxes overpaid by or on behalf of the decedent. Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this claim, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete.

Signature of person claiming refund

Date

Phone no. (optional)

General Instructions

Future developments. For the latest information about developments related to Form 1310 and its instructions, such as legislation enacted after they were published, go to www.irs.gov/Form1310.

Purpose of Form

Use Form 1310 to claim a refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer.

Who Must File

If you are claiming a refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer, you must file Form 1310 if:

You are NOT a surviving spouse filing an original or amended joint return with the decedent; and

You are NOT a personal representative (defined later) filing, for the decedent, an original Form 1040, 1040-SR, 1040A, 1040EZ, 1040NR, or 1040-NR that has the court certificate showing your appointment attached.

Example. Assume Mr. Green died on January 4 before filing his tax return. On April 3 of the same year, you were appointed by the court as the personal representative for Mr. Green’s estate and you file Form 1040 for Mr. Green. You do not need to

file Form 1310 to claim the refund on Mr. Green’s tax return. However, you must attach to his return a copy of the court certificate showing your appointment.

Where To File

If you checked the box on line A, you can return the joint-name check with Form 1310 to your local IRS office or the Internal Revenue Service Center where you filed your return. If you checked the box on line B or line C, then:

Follow the instructions for the form to which you are attaching Form 1310; or

Send it to the same Internal Revenue Service Center where the original return was filed if you are filing Form 1310 separately. If the original return was filed electronically, mail Form 1310 to the Internal Revenue Service Center designated for the address shown on Form 1310 above. See the instructions for the original return for the address.

Personal Representative

For purposes of this form, a personal representative is the executor or administrator of the decedent’s estate, as appointed or certified by the court. A copy of the decedent’s will cannot be accepted as evidence that you are the personal representative.

For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see page 2.

Cat. No. 11566B

Form 1310 (Rev. 12-2021)

Form 1310 (Rev. 12-2021)

Page 2

Additional Information

For more details, see Death of a Taxpayer in the instructions for your return, or get Pub. 559, Survivors, Executors, and Administrators.

Specific Instructions

Name of Decedent

If you are filing a joint return for spouses who are both deceased and you are required to file Form 1310 (see Who Must File, earlier), you must do the following.

Complete a separate Form 1310 for each spouse.

Attach both of these completed Forms 1310 to the return.

Note: If a refund is due, following these steps will assist in the timely release of the refund.

P.O. Box

Enter your box number only if your post office does not deliver mail to your home.

Foreign Address

If your address is outside the United States or its possessions or territories, enter the information in the following order: city, province or state, and country. Follow the country’s practice for entering the postal code. Do not abbreviate the country name.

Line A

Check the box on line A only if you received a refund check in your name and your deceased spouse’s name. You can return the joint-name check marked “VOID” along with Form 1310 to your local IRS office or the Internal Revenue Service Center where you filed your return, along with a written request for reissuance of the refund check. A new check will be issued in your name and mailed to you.

Line B

Check the box on line B only if you are the decedent’s court- appointed or certified personal representative claiming a refund for the decedent on Form 1040X (1040-X beginning with the January 2020 revision), Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return; or Form 843, Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement. You must attach a copy of the court certificate showing your appointment. But if you have already sent the court certificate to the IRS, complete Form 1310 and write “Certificate Previously Filed” at the bottom of the form.

Line C

Check the box on line C if you are not a surviving spouse requesting reissuance of a refund check received in your name and your deceased spouse’s name and if there is not a court- appointed or certified personal representative. You must also complete Part II. If you check the box on line C, you must have proof of death.

The proof of death is a copy of either of the following.

The death certificate.

The formal notification from the appropriate government office (for example, Department of Defense) informing the next of kin of the decedent’s death.

Do not attach the death certificate or other proof of death to Form 1310. Instead, keep it for your records and provide it if requested.

Example. Your father died on August 25. You are his sole survivor. Your father did not have a will and the court did not appoint a personal representative for his estate. Your father is entitled to a $300 refund. To get the refund, you must complete and attach Form 1310 to your father’s final return. You should check the box on Form 1310, line C; answer all the questions in Part II; and sign your name in Part III. You must also keep a copy of the death certificate or other proof of death for your records.

Lines 1–3

If you checked the box on line C, you must complete lines 1 through 3.

Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice

We ask for the information on this form to carry out the Internal Revenue laws of the United States. This information will be used to determine your eligibility pursuant to Internal Revenue Code section 6012 to claim the refund due the decedent. Code section 6109 requires you to provide your social security number and that of the decedent. You are not required to claim the refund due the decedent, but if you do so, you must provide the information requested on this form. Failure to provide this information may delay or prevent processing of your claim. Providing false or fraudulent information may subject you to penalties. Routine uses of this information include providing it to the Department of Justice for use in civil and criminal litigation, to the Social Security Administration for the administration of Social Security programs, and to cities, states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. commonwealths and possessions for use in administering their tax laws. We may also disclose this information to other countries under a tax treaty, to federal and state agencies to enforce federal nontax criminal laws, or to federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies to combat terrorism. You do not have to provide your phone number.

You are not required to provide the information requested on a form unless the form displays a valid OMB control number. Books or records relating to a form or its instructions must be retained as long as their contents may become material in the administration of any Internal Revenue law. Generally, tax returns and return information are confidential, as required by Code section 6103.

The average time and expenses required to complete and file this form will vary depending on individual circumstances. For the estimated averages, see the instructions for your income tax return.

If you have suggestions for making this form simpler, we would be happy to hear from you. See the instructions for your income tax return.

Document Specs

Fact Number Description
1 The IRS Form 1310 is used to claim a federal tax refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer.
2 It's required when a refund is due to a deceased person and the refund is being requested by someone other than the deceased's surviving spouse filing a joint return.
3 The form requires the claimant to provide identification information about the deceased, as well as the claimant's relationship to the deceased.
4 Documentation such as a death certificate may be required to accompany the form, depending on the circumstances surrounding the filing.
5 IRS Form 1310 can be filed electronically with a tax return or on its own, if the return has already been filed.
6 The form allows for the designation of a bank account where the IRS can directly deposit the refund, accelerating the refund process.
7 If submitted by mail, the processing time for a claim involving Form 1310 can take up to 8 weeks or more, depending on the IRS's workload and staffing levels.
8 There are no state-specific versions of IRS Form 1310, as it pertains to federal tax matters. However, different states may have their own procedures and forms for claiming refunds on behalf of deceased taxpayers for state taxes.

Instructions on Writing IRS 1310

Once the IRS 1310 form is correctly completed and submitted, it will be processed to ensure that any amount owed to a deceased taxpayer can be rightfully claimed by the person filling out the form. It's important to follow each step carefully and provide accurate information to avoid delays in processing. Whether you're claiming a refund on behalf of a deceased family member or are a legal representative of the estate, this form is a necessary step in managing their outstanding tax matters.

  1. Start by gathering the necessary information including the deceased taxpayer's full name, social security number, date of death, and the tax year for the refund claim.
  2. Complete Part I, which asks for the information about the deceased. This includes their name, social security number, the date of death, and the address to which the IRS should send the refund check.
  3. In Part II, if you are the court-appointed representative of the estate, check the box in line A and attach a copy of the court certificate showing your appointment.
  4. If you are not the court-appointed representative, fill out Part II, lines B through E. This requires you to state your relationship to the deceased, whether a refund check was issued before death, and if you are entitled to the refund based on the laws of the state where the deceased lived.
  5. Part III requires a certification that the information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge. Sign and date the form.
  6. If you are a paid preparer completing the form on behalf of the estate, fill out the “Paid Preparer Use Only” section at the bottom of the form.

After completing the form, review it to ensure all information is correct and that no required sections have been overlooked. Attach any required documentation, such as a copy of the court certificate if you're the appointed representative. Finally, mail the completed form and any attachments to the address provided in the IRS instructions for Form 1310. The processing time can vary, so it's essential to provide all requested information to minimize any further delays. Rest assured, with careful attention to detail, you'll have taken an important step towards resolving the tax matters of the deceased.

Understanding IRS 1310

What is the IRS 1310 form used for?

The IRS 1310 form is specifically designed for individuals who are requesting a federal tax refund on behalf of someone who has passed away. This form is necessary when a refund is due to a deceased taxpayer, and the person claiming the refund is not the surviving spouse filing a joint return.

Who needs to file the IRS 1310 form?

Anyone who is requesting a tax refund for a deceased taxpayer and is not the surviving spouse filing a joint return needs to complete the IRS 1310 form. This includes executors, administrators of the estate, or anyone who is legally entitled to the deceased taxpayer's refund.

What information do I need to complete the IRS 1310 form?

Completing the IRS 1310 form requires specific information including the deceased taxpayer's full name, social security number, and the date of death. Additionally, the claimant must provide their relationship to the deceased, their own social security number, and details about the refund being claimed.

How do I submit the IRS 1310 form?

The IRS 1310 form can be submitted in two ways: attached to the deceased taxpayer's final tax return if it has not yet been filed, or separately if the final tax return has already been filed. It is important to carefully follow the instructions provided with the form to ensure proper submission.

Is there a deadline for filing the IRS 1310 form?

While there is not a specific deadline for filing the IRS 1310 form, it is subject to the general tax filing deadlines. If you are attaching it to a final tax return, it should be submitted by the tax return's due date. If the tax return has already been filed, the form should be filed as soon as possible to claim the refund.

Can I file the IRS 1310 form electronically?

Currently, the IRS 1310 form cannot be filed electronically. It must be printed, completed by hand, and mailed to the IRS along with any other required documents.

Where can I find the IRS 1310 form?

The IRS 1310 form is available on the official IRS website. You can download, print, and fill out the form from there. Instructions for completing and submitting the form are also provided, ensuring you can accurately request the refund owed to the deceased taxpayer.

Common mistakes

Filling out IRS Form 1310 can be a complex process, fraught with potential for error if due diligence is not exercised. One common mistake is failing to accurately determine who should file the form. Form 1310 is designed for individuals claiming a refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer. However, it's often mistakenly filed by executors or administrators who are already identified to the IRS as the decedent's representative. In such cases, IRS Form 1310 may not be required, leading to unnecessary paperwork and possible processing delays.

Another prevalent error involves incorrect or incomplete taxpayer information. The accuracy of the deceased's Social Security Number (SSN), as well as their name and address, is crucial for the processing of Form 1310. Any discrepancy in these details can result in the IRS rejecting the form or significantly delaying the refund. It is imperative that filers double-check these entries against official documents to ensure their correctness.

Additionally, filers often overlook the necessity to attach supporting documentation. While Form 1310 provides the IRS with necessary information about the claimant and the deceased, certain cases require additional documents, such as a death certificate or a court letter appointing an executor or administrator. Neglecting to include these documents can lead to the form being deemed incomplete, thereby stalling the refund process.

A fourth error commonly encountered is the mishandling of the refund destination. Individuals completing Form 1310 must specify how and to whom the IRS should issue the refund. Mistakes in this section—such as providing incorrect banking details for direct deposit or misspelling the beneficiary's name—can not only delay the refund but also risk sending the refund to the wrong entity. Ensuring this information is accurate and clearly stated is crucial for the smooth processing of the refund.

Beyond these specific errors, it's always advisable for individuals to consult with a tax professional or legal advisor when dealing with complex situations, such as filing taxes for a deceased loved one. Taking this step can help avoid these and other errors, making the process as straightforward and error-free as possible.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with the aftermath of a loved one’s passing, the paperwork might seem overwhelming. Among these crucial documents is the IRS Form 1310, which is used to claim a refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer. However, this form rarely stands alone in the process. Several other forms and documents are often required to manage the deceased’s financial affairs fully. Understanding what each document serves for can significantly simplify this challenging task.

  • IRS Form 1040: This is the U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. If the deceased had not filed their tax return for the year they passed away, this form would need to be completed and submitted. The form covers income, deductions, and credits that the taxpayer was entitled to up to the date of death.
  • IRS Form 1041: Known as the U.S. Income Tax Return for Estates and Trusts, this form is necessary when the deceased person’s estate generates more than $600 in annual gross income. The estate is considered a separate entity for tax purposes, and Form 1041 is used to report its income, deductions, and gains or losses.
  • Final Account Statements and Asset Valuations: These documents are not federal forms but are critical in settling the deceased’s estate. They include final account statements for bank accounts, retirement accounts, and valuations of any other assets. These are necessary for both tax filings and legal proceedings in probate court.
  • Death Certificate: While not a form filed with the IRS, a death certificate is often required when submitting forms like the 1310 or to retitle assets. It serves as legal proof of death and is necessary for many transactions and filings following a person's death.

Each document plays a vital role in ensuring the deceased’s affairs are settled correctly and according to law. While the process can be emotionally taxing, these forms help streamline the financial and legal aspects of dealing with a deceased person's estate. They protect the interests of all parties involved and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations. Navigating through these responsibilities with care and attention will ultimately bring peace of mind during a challenging time.

Similar forms

The IRS 1310 form is comparable to the IRS W-9 form, which is used to collect taxpayer identification numbers (TINs) and certification. Both forms are used in the administration of tax reporting, but while the IRS 1310 specifically deals with requesting a refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer, the W-9 is utilized for providing a correct TIN to entities that are required to file information returns with the IRS. The commonality lies in their role in tax documentation and compliance, albeit serving different purposes.

Similarly, the IRS 1040 form, the U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, shares functionality with the IRS 1310 form as they both involve aspects of personal taxation. The 1040 form is required for filing an annual income tax return, which may include reporting taxes owed or refunds due to the taxpayer. The connection between them is evident in processing tax refunds, where the IRS 1310 form is necessary to claim a refund for a deceased individual's final tax year.

The IRS 4506-T form, used for requesting tax return transcripts, also parallels the IRS 1310 form in its use for obtaining tax-related documents from the IRS. While the 4506-T can be used to request a wide range of tax documents, including prior-year returns, the 1310 form is specific to refund claims on behalf of deceased taxpayers. Both forms facilitate the retrieval of tax information but cater to different needs regarding tax documentation.

The IRS Form 8822, which is used for notifying the IRS about a change of address, shares an administrative nature with the IRS 1310 form. Both documents are essential for maintaining accurate records with the IRS. While Form 8822 ensures that the taxpayer receives important tax correspondence and refunds, Form 1310 is necessary when a refund is to be issued to the estate or beneficiaries of a deceased taxpayer.

The IRS Form 4868 parallels the 1310 form through its involvement in the tax return process. Form 4868 is an application for an automatic extension of time to file a U.S. individual income tax return. Like the 1310, it intersects with the process of filing and managing tax obligations, although it focuses on extending the filing deadline rather than addressing posthumous tax affairs.

Similar to the IRS 1310 form, the IRS Form 8857 requests relief for a different kind of tax issue, specifically requesting relief under the Innocent Spouse Relief tax provisions. While the 8857 aims to separate the tax liabilities of one spouse from joint liabilities, the 1310 focuses on the procedural aspects of claiming refunds for the deceased. Both forms deal with exceptions within standard tax procedures and provide pathways for individuals to navigate complex tax situations.

IRS Form 709, used for reporting United States Gift (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Taxes, and the IRS 1310 form both interact with the IRS in relation to personal financial situations, specifically transitions. Where Form 709 addresses the transfer of wealth during an individual’s lifetime, Form 1310 relates to the financial affairs of a person after death. These forms cover the tax implications of wealth transfer, either as a gift or as part of an estate.

Lastly, the IRS Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative, bears resemblance to the IRS 1310 form in terms of its purpose to authorize representation before the IRS. While Form 2848 grants a designated individual the authority to handle tax matters on behalf of the filer, Form 1310 is utilized to manage the specific aspect of claiming a deceased person's tax refund. Both are instrumental in allowing someone other than the taxpayer to take necessary actions with the IRS.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out IRS Form 1310 can be an important step in the right direction for claiming a refund due on behalf of a deceased taxpayer. To make sure you navigate this process as smoothly as possible, here are some essential dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do ensure you are eligible to file Form 1310. Generally, you need to be the executor of the deceased's estate or someone legally entitled to the refund.
  • Do gather all necessary documentation before starting the form, including the death certificate and the taxpayer’s final income tax return.
  • Do perfectly fill out all required sections of the form to avoid delays. Incomplete forms can significantly delay processing times.
  • Do double-check the deceased taxpayer’s Social Security Number (SSN) and the tax year you are claiming for. Accuracy is key in this process.
  • Do attach a copy of the death certificate to the form if you are not listed as a surviving spouse or personal representative on the IRS’s records.
  • Don’t forget to sign Form 1310 if you are filing it by paper. An unsigned form can lead to unnecessary complications or delays.
  • Don’t overlook the importance of filing the form separately if you are mailing in a paper return that you are also claiming the refund for.
  • Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure about any part of the process. A tax professional can provide guidance and help ensure everything is filled out correctly.
  • Don’t use this form if you were already issued a refund check that needs to be reissued due to incorrect or incomplete information. Instead, contact the IRS directly for instructions on how to proceed.

Misconceptions

When dealing with the aftermath of a loved one's passing, the management of final tax matters can often lead to confusion and misunderstanding, particularly with the use of IRS Form 1310. This form, typically utilized to claim a refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer, is shrouded in a handful of misconceptions that can complicate an already difficult process. By clarifying these misunderstandings, individuals can navigate their obligations with greater clarity and ease.

  • Only a legally appointed executor needs to file Form 1310: This belief is widespread but incorrect. In reality, if the deceased did not leave behind a will, the surviving spouse or another family member can file this form to claim a refund that the deceased was entitled to receive. The key requirement is the claimant must not have been appointed as an executor or an administrator by the court.

  • Form 1310 is required for all refunds claimed for the deceased: This is not always the case. Specifically, when the surviving spouse is filing a joint return and is solely claiming the refund, Form 1310 is not required. The IRS does not mandate this form under such circumstances, as the joint return itself serves as a request by the surviving spouse for the refund.

  • Filing Form 1310 is a complicated process: Many assume that submitting IRS Form 1310 is a daunting task, fraught with legal complexities. However, the form is designed to be straightforward. It requires basic information about the deceased, the claimant, and the nature of the claim. While it's always wise to approach tax matters with caution, this form does not demand extensive legal knowledge or expertise.

  • Form 1310 can only be filed with a paper return: In an age where digital transactions are becoming the norm, this misconception is particularly outdated. Taxpayers may have the option to file Form 1310 electronically with the deceased taxpayer's final return, depending on their tax software or professional tax preparer’s capabilities. This process can expedite the refund process, making it a valuable option for many filers.

Understanding these key misconceptions can significantly demystify the process of filing IRS Form 1310. It’s important for individuals to approach tax issues informed and prepared, ensuring they fulfill their duties effectively while alleviating some of the burdens that can accompany the loss of a loved one.

Key takeaways

Filling out the IRS 1310 form is a necessary step for individuals who are requesting a refund on behalf of someone who has passed away. This process can seem daunting at first, but understanding the key takeaways can simplify it considerably. Below are seven crucial points one should know when navigating this process.

  • Determine Eligibility: Before filling out the form, confirm that you are eligible to file it. Generally, IRS 1310 is for those who are claiming a refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer. If you are the executor or administrator of the estate, or if there is no executor and you are responsible for the estate, you'll likely need to complete this form.
  • Complete All Required Sections: Ensure every section of the form is completed accurately. Missing or incorrect information can lead to delays in processing the refund.
  • Supporting Documents: Alongside the IRS 1310 form, you may need to submit additional documents. These could include a copy of the death certificate and legal documents that verify your right to claim the refund.
  • Identification Numbers: The form requires both the Social Security number of the deceased individual and the claimant's identification number. Make sure these are entered correctly to avoid any processing issues.
  • Refund Details: Be clear about the refund you're claiming. This includes the tax year of the refund and the amount. The IRS needs this information to accurately process your request.
  • Direct Deposit: If you wish to have the refund directly deposited, include your banking information on the form. This can expedite the refund process.
  • Review and Sign: Before submitting IRS 1310, review it for any errors or omissions. Your signature is required to validate the form. If you're signing on behalf of the deceased, ensure your relationship to the taxpayer is clearly indicated.

Understanding and following these key points can smooth the process of filing IRS 1310, helping to ensure that you receive the refund in a timely manner. Always consult the most recent version of the form and IRS guidelines, as procedures and requirements may change.

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