Tax
What is a date of death tax return?
A date of death return is a final income tax return for the deceased person, including up to their date of death. This is known as an (IR3). For further information contact the Inland Revenue.
When is a date of death tax return due?
You can file this at any time from when probate has been granted, until prior to the distribution of the estate.
Who can complete the date of death tax return?
This is done by the executor however where the estate is complex the return should be referred to an accountant or to a trustee company such as Perpetual Guardian.
Do you need to complete a tax return after the deceased dies and you have filed a date of death return?
Yes, if the estate is earning income after the deceased has died (for example dividends or rental income) you will need to complete an estate or trust income estate tax return (IR6) as well.
Who can complete the estate return?
This is done by the executor; however where the estate is complex the return should be referred to an accountant, or to a trustee company such as Perpetual Guardian.
The deceased has a student loan, what needs to be done?
The balance remaining on a student loan will be written off once IRD views the death certificate. Send the original death certificate or a certified copy of the death certificate to:
Inland Revenue
PO Box 39090
Wellington Mail Centre
Lower Hutt 5045
What happens if the deceased person was paying child support?
Their estate is liable for any outstanding child support amounts. The outstanding amount can only be written off if there are no funds available from the estate. For further information contact the IRD on 0800 221 221.
What happens if the deceased person was receiving child support?
Any child support amounts owing to them at their date of death can be paid to their estate. For further information contact the IRD on 0800 221 221.
What should I do if the deceased was a KiwiSaver contributor?
On the death of a KiwiSaver contributor, KiwiSaver savings are paid to their estate. For further information contact the IRD on 0800 549 472. Once your KiwiSaver investment reaches $15,000 it is best to speak to one of our experts about the best way to ensure the prompt payment of this into your estate.
What is the executor's personal risk if the deceased's tax return is not completed?
The executor runs the risk of being held personally liable to the IRD if they distribute all of the estate without first paying off any tax liability the deceased had.