For individuals & families: After a bereavement
Tax information after a bereavement
This information is for people who are finalising the tax and other financial affairs of someone who is deceased. Please contact us as soon as you can to let us know that you are dealing with these affairs, so that we can help guide you through the process as smoothly as possible and can contact you directly when necessary.
Filing a date of death return
Usually you will have to file a final Income tax return (IR3) for the deceased, including their income up to the date of death.
Please contact us if you are uncertain whether you will need to file a final tax return.
Filing an estate return
If their estate is still receiving income after the date of death, you will have to file an Estate or Trust income tax return (IR6).
If they had a student loan
Their student loan is written off after we have sighted the death certificate. Please send us either the original or a certified copy of the death certificate. If you send the original, please include a return address so this can be sent back to you.
Please contact us if you are unsure of where to send the death certificate.
If they were 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.
If they were receiving child support
Any child support amounts owing to them at their date of death can be paid to their estate.
Date published: 03 Feb 2005
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