Tax Tip: How Long to Save a Deceased Parent’s Tax Returns

Overview

• The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) expects taxpayers to keep copies of returns and all supporting documents for six years after filing.
• The CRA doesn’t make a distinction for the records of deceased taxpayers. These records should be kept by the executor of the person’s estate, including receipts used to calculate deductions.
• Since returns are filed the following year, tax documents actually are kept up to seven years.

Filing A Tax Return For A Deceased Person

Which TurboTax Is Best for You?

When a loved one has passed, all the paperwork and legal jargon can seem a little confusing or daunting to deal with. But with the right information ahead of time, you can still navigate the tax waters to file your return with TurboTax Online.

However, if you feel a bit overwhelmed, consider TurboTax Live Assist & Review and get unlimited help and advice from a real person as you do your taxes. Plus, there’s a final review before you file.  Or, you can choose TurboTax Live Full Service and have one of our tax experts do you return from start to finish.

References & Resources

• Canada Revenue Agency: How Long Should You Keep Your Income Tax Records?

Key Concepts

• Tax records deceased
• Estate tax returns
• Keep tax receipts