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“Thank you very much for your work on all matters. Your professionalism, dedication, and personability have been the highlight in the over 2.5 years it has taken so far processing the estate.”
Deceased estate tax return services for Executors
If you’re the Executor or Administrator of a deceased estate, you may be responsible for lodging final tax returns, managing deceased estate obligations and dealing with ATO requirements before an estate can be finalised. Our specialists can help prepare and lodge the required tax returns, giving you confidence that everything has been handled correctly.
What is a deceased estate tax return?
A deceased estate tax return is a tax return lodged with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for income earned by an estate after a person dies. In Victoria, the Executor of a Will is responsible for ensuring these tax obligations are met before distributing assets.
Why use State Trustees to manage a deceased person’s tax affairs
This State Trustees service is ideal for family members and friends appointed as Executors in a Will who need expert support with estate administration and ensuring all tax obligations are properly met .
It’s especially helpful if:
- You’ve never dealt with tax beyond your own return
- You’re feeling overwhelmed or time‑poor
- You’re worried about “missing something” or making a mistake
- You’re not sure what the ATO expects from an Executor
- You just want to make sure everything is done properly and fairly
You don’t need a financial or tax background. We explain everything in clear, simple steps so you have peace of mind that your loved one’s tax affairs are in good order.
Expert help for Executors navigating estate tax obligations.
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Plain‑language explanations
No tax jargon. We explain everything in clear, simple language.
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Clear timelines for each step
We outline each step so nothing is left to chance.
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Respectful, trauma‑aware communication
We understand this is a difficult time for you and your family.
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Secure handling of your documents
Your documents and personal information are protected at every step.
How State Trustees executor tax services works
How we help – step by step
We keep the process simple and transparent.
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Enquiry
You complete a short online form to help us get an idea of your situation. -
Phone chat
You’ll receive a call from our tax team within one business day to discuss your needs and outline fees. -
Engagement & document upload
If you decide to go ahead, we send you some short documents to complete and return.
If you proceed, our team will commence reviewing the tax affairs of the deceased and their estate and will advise you on what is required to be completed. We’ll also guide you on what to keep for your records as Executor.
Expert help with ATO deceased estate tax returns
Answer a few simple questions so we can understand your situation. We’ll review your details and contact you to explain how we can help.
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Why it’s important to get estate tax returns right – Executor responsibilities
As an Executor, you have legal duties, including tax-related responsibilities.
When someone passes away, their tax obligations don’t disappear. In many cases, the Executor must:
- Review and complete all outstanding tax obligations for the person who has died
- Lodge estate tax returns if the estate earns income (for example, from rent, investments or interest)
- Make sure any tax debts are paid before distributing the estate
If this isn’t handled properly, there can be consequences, such as:
- Delays in finalising the estate
- Penalties or interest from the ATO
- Disputes between beneficiaries
- Personal risk for the Executor if they distribute assets before tax is sorted
State Trustees’ role is to help you understand what applies in your situation and make sure the right returns are lodged correctly, on time.
The peace of mind is real
Executors across Victoria trust State Trustees to handle their loved one’s tax affairs with care and expertise.
★★★
Thank you so much for your work, it made my “job” so much easier! Having someone who knows exactly what to do with the ATO made all the difference.”
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Deceased estate tax return FAQ’s
I’ve never been an Executor before. Is your tax service suitable for me?
I’ve never been an Executor before. Is your tax service suitable for me?
Yes. This ‘Deceased Estate Tax Return Service’ is designed for all Executors with no financial background. State Trustees explains what needs to happen in clear, simple language.
Can I be personally liable for unpaid tax as an Executor?
Can I be personally liable for unpaid tax as an Executor?
Yes, in some circumstances.
If estate assets are distributed before tax debts are identified and paid, an Executor can face personal financial risk. This is why it is important to confirm the estate’s tax position before distributing assets.
State Trustees helps you understand and manage this risk.
Do estates need to file tax returns?
Do estates need to file tax returns?
Not all estates need to file tax returns. It depends on the deceased person’s income, assets and other factors. In some cases, a final individual tax return or estate tax return must be lodged. In others, the ATO may accept that no return is needed. We can help you work out which applies. Learn more about our Deceased Estate Tax Return service
What happens if an Executor does not lodge the required tax returns?
What happens if an Executor does not lodge the required tax returns?
If tax returns are not lodged on time or at all, the ATO may apply for penalties and interest. The Executor may also face personal risk if estate assets are distributed before tax debts are paid.
I live interstate/overseas. Can State Trustees Victoria still help with a deceased estate tax return?
I live interstate/overseas. Can State Trustees Victoria still help with a deceased estate tax return?
In many cases, yes. Most of our work can be done by phone, email and secure document upload. We’ll let you know during the first call if any additional steps are required. Get in touch here
What is the difference between a final individual tax return and an estate tax return?
What is the difference between a final individual tax return and an estate tax return?
The final individual tax return:
- Reports salary, pensions, investments and other income received before death
- Is lodged in the name of the deceased person
- Finalises the deceased individuals’ personal tax affairs
The estate tax return:
- Reports income earned by the estate after death
- May include bank interest, rent, dividends or capital gains
- Is lodged in the name of the deceased estate
- The estate is treated as a separate taxpayer by the ATO hence requires a separate tax file number (TFN).
When should I commence attending to the tax affairs of the deceased and their estate?
When should I commence attending to the tax affairs of the deceased and their estate?
The ATO expects that the tax affairs for a deceased person and their estate are attended to as soon as practicable after the Executor has obtained official authority (i.e. Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration) to administer an estate.
The ATO sets strict timeframes for when tax returns are due to be lodged with them. Failing to lodge income tax returns by these due dates (where it is within the Executor’s control) can run the risk of the ATO imposing penalties. It is therefore best to commence attending to the income tax obligations as soon as you have received authority to administer a deceased person’s estate. Learn more about our Deceased Estate Tax Return service.
I have engaged a law firm to help me administer the estate but I need help with the tax affairs. Can State Trustees assist?
I have engaged a law firm to help me administer the estate but I need help with the tax affairs. Can State Trustees assist?
Absolutely, we can help.
While your solicitor focuses on the legal aspects of administering the estate, our team specialises in Deceased Estate taxation and financial compliance, ensuring every tax obligation is handled accurately and on time.
We regularly work alongside law firms, Executors and Administrators to provide seamless support with all tax‑related requirements Get in touch here.
What are the fees for the Deceased Estate Tax Return service?
What are the fees for the Deceased Estate Tax Return service?
Our fees depend on the type and level of support you need. We work with you to understand your situation first, then recommend the most suitable service so you’re only paying for what’s relevant.
You can view our general service rates here: Fees and charges
If you’re unsure what’s right for you, feel free to get in touch, we’re happy to help guide you.
