Archive · 19 Aug 2025
How to File Taxes and Claim Refunds for Deceased Parents
If your parent passed away, you can file their taxes to get back any tax refunds (TDS) they were owed.
First, you need to prove you're the legal heir, which you get from local government offices.
Then, you register yourself on the tax website as the person who can handle their taxes.
You'll need to include all the income they earned up until they died.
Any refunds will be sent to your bank account.
If you're unsure, a tax professional can help.
You can file an ITR on behalf of a deceased parent and claim a TDS refund.
Obtain legal heir proof, typically from the local Tehsildar office.
Register as an authorized representative on the income tax e-filing portal.
File the ITR, including income from April 1st until the death date.
Specify your bank account for refund credit if the original account is closed.
- Who
- Legal heirs of deceased parents.
- What
- Filing an Income Tax Return (ITR) and claiming a TDS refund on behalf of a deceased parent.
- When
- For income earned from April 1st until the date of death.
- Where
- Mumbai (and most parts of Maharashtra) for obtaining legal heir proof.
- Why
- To claim tax refunds (TDS) on behalf of the deceased.
Issue: Complexity of process
Issue: Need for professional assistance
Complexity vs. Simplicity
Issue: Complexity of process
Process is straightforward.
Issue: Need for professional assistance
Process may feel overwhelming during a period of grief.
- Main Focus
- Filing ITR and claiming TDS refund for deceased parent
- Key Step 1
- Obtain legal heir proof
- Key Step 2
- Register as authorized representative on income tax portal
- Income Inclusion
- Income from April 1st to date of death
- Refund Destination
- Heir's bank account