Deceased Estate Tax Returns
Losing a loved one is hard enough without worrying about tax. If you are the executor or administrator of an estate, there are tax returns and steps to take care of. UV TAX helps families through the process with care and clear explanations.
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Tax returns that may be needed
Date of death return
A final individual tax return covering 1 July to the date of death.
Earlier years
Any returns from previous years that were not lodged.
Estate trust returns
If the estate earns income after the date of death – for example, rent, interest or dividends – trust tax returns may be needed until the estate is finalised.
Steps for executors
- Notify the tax office of the death and that you are the legal representative
- Collect income statements, bank and investment records
- Check whether earlier returns are outstanding
- Lodge the date of death return
- Consider whether estate trust returns are needed
- Check capital gains tax on assets before selling or distributing them
Capital gains tax and the family home
Inheriting assets doesn’t usually trigger tax straight away, but selling them later can. Special rules can exempt the deceased’s home from CGT in some cases – for example, if it is sold within a set period. Get advice before selling property from an estate.
Selling estate property?
A clearance certificate may be needed when estate property is sold to someone who isn’t a beneficiary, to avoid 15% being withheld.
How UV TAX helps
- Prepare the date of death return and any outstanding returns
- Prepare estate trust tax returns
- Work out CGT on estate assets
- Help with clearance certificates for property sales
- Work alongside the estate’s lawyer
⚠️ General information only – not tax or legal advice. Estate administration involves legal as well as tax matters. UV TAX provides tax help and recommends you also obtain legal advice from a lawyer about the will and estate administration. This page is a simple overview as at November 2026 and does not consider your personal circumstances. Tax laws, rates and thresholds change regularly. Please get advice for your situation before acting.
Need help with an estate’s tax?
Free consultation and a fixed-fee quote before we start.
0466 268 405Frequently asked questions
Does a tax return need to be lodged after someone dies?
Usually a final “date of death” return is needed, and sometimes returns for earlier years and for the estate itself.
Who lodges the return?
The executor or administrator (legal personal representative) is responsible.
Is inheritance taxed in Australia?
Australia has no inheritance tax, but CGT can apply when inherited assets are later sold, and income earned by the estate can be taxed.
Do I need a clearance certificate to sell the deceased’s house?
It depends on who acquires the property. Transfers to beneficiaries may not need one; sales to others usually do.
Related
General information current as at November 2026.