Identify assets on last two year's tax returns

This is important to ensure that you find all of the assets that the deceased person had. It also makes sure that no taxable income falls through the cracks.

1) Look for the tax returns. A few places to check:

  • Filing cabinets

  • Search for “tax” on their computer

  • If the deceased used an accountant, financial manager, or tax preparation firm, they should have a copy

2) If you don’t find the tax return forms, you can request them from the IRS. There are three ways:

  • Call the IRS at 1-800-908-9946 and follow the prompts

  • Online to get transcripts delivered by mail in 5 to 10 days to the address on file. Go to this link: https://sa.www4.irs.gov/irfof-tra/login. You will need:

    • SSN or ITIN number

    • Date of birth

    • Mailing address from latest tax return

  • Get the transcripts electronically online immediately. This requires more information than by mail. You can view, print or download the forms within 20 minutes. Go to this link: https://sa.www4.irs.gov/eauth/pub/es_general.jsp. You will need:

    • SSN 

    • Date of birth

    • Filing status

    • Mailing address from the latest tax return

    • Access to their email account

    • Your personal account number from a credit card, mortgage, home equity loan, home equity line of credit or car loan,

    • Mobile phone with their name on the account

finding documents, settling affairsJennifer Goodfinance, finding documents & accounts, financial and propertyComment