★★★★★
“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 service
Named as Executor?
We handle the ATO so you don’t have to.
Settling a loved one’s estate is hard enough. Our specialist tax team deals with the Australian Tax Office (ATO) for you.
- Estate tax made simple
- Deceased Estate specialists
- Tax reviews from $275
85+
years serving Victorians
Fast
callback time
100,000’s
executors helped
From $275
initial tax review
If this sounds like you
Most Executors have never done this before
If any of these sound familiar, you’re in the right place.
Named as executor
You’re the executor but not sure what the ATO expects from you.
Time poor
You’re time poor and worried about making a mistake.
Reduce personal risk
You’ve heard Executors can be personally liable and want to make sure you get it right.
Unsure what to lodge
You’re not sure what types of returns and how many to lodge.
How it works, step by step
We keep the process simple and transparent
For most situations after your enquiry, you’ll upload your documents and we carry out a preliminary tax review for $275
No obligation. No jargon. No surprises.
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Specialist review
A registered tax agent reviews the full tax position of the estate.
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Listed returns required
Every return identified, including any from previous years.
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Step by step guide
An outline of what needs to be done.
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A quote for next steps
A quote if you’d like us to handle everything from here.
What Executors have said
★★★
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.”
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.
GET IN TOUCH
Enquire about executor tax help
Complete the form and we’ll call to discuss your situation and explain how we can help.
