SS-4 and W-9 for revocable trust

[happyreturns]

Tax return for revocable trust where taxpayer and spouse have both passed away in 2009. How do these two forms come into play? Which used when and for what types of trusts?

[JG EA]

Tax return for revocable trust where taxpayer and spouse have both passed away in 2009. How do these two forms come into play? Which used when and for what types of trusts?

Their final return would show all their income before the date of death.

Then see if they need to file an 709 or 706 return.

The SS-4 was no doubt submitted for any income that came in after date of death. If there is $600 of income (interest or any other income) then a 1041 needs to be filed. Many attorneys recommend setting this up immediately and then closing as soon as possible.

The bank may have sent a W-9 to get the new EIN.

[Burke]

The SS-4 is used to get an EIN for an estate and/or trust. Generally needed for an estate after someone dies. You can mail in or you can obtain online (recommended) at www.irs.gov. Fill out the form with all the info and use it as a guide for data input.

If the revocable trust was designed just to avoid probate and not to continue for the benefit of other beneficiaries, you may be able to elect to treat the trust as part of the estate under Sect 645. File form 8855 with estate 1041 when due. In any case, instructions say you still need an EIN for the trust, but you will not need to file trust returns.

You will need an EIN for the estate in most cases. The bank will require it to set up a bank account, for instance. A W-9 is sent by someone like a bank that needs a signed certification of the EIN (by the executor and/or trustee).