Practical and immediate
How do I notify the IRS?
Short answer
File a final tax return. If you are the surviving spouse, file jointly for the year of death. Write "Deceased" and the date of death across the top. If you are not the spouse, you may need IRS Form 56 (Notice Concerning…
What this usually means
File a final tax return. If you are the surviving spouse, file jointly for the year of death. Write "Deceased" and the date of death across the top. If you are not the spouse, you may need IRS Form 56 (Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship) to act on behalf of the estate.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.