Fill out Form 8971 Online in 2025

Complete your estate tax return with accurate information
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What is Form 8971?

Form 8971, also known as the Information Regarding Beneficiaries Acquiring Property from a Decedent, is important for estate tax purposes. It helps the IRS track the fair market value of property inherited from someone who has passed away. This form ensures that beneficiaries report the correct value when they sell inherited assets. Filing Form 8971 accurately is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with tax laws. It provides transparency and helps maintain the integrity of the estate tax system.

What is Form 8971 used for?

Form 8971 is used for reporting the final value of a decedent's assets for estate tax purposes. This form is important for various reasons:

  • to report asset values for the estate.
  • to provide beneficiaries with information on their inheritance.
  • to comply with IRS regulations for estate tax filings.

How to fill out Form 8971?

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  1. 1

    Open Form 8971 in the PDF editor.

  2. 2

    Enter the decedent’s name and other required information in the fields.

  3. 3

    Fill out the details for each beneficiary, including their names and addresses.

  4. 4

    Include the fair market value of each asset as of the date of death.

  5. 5

    Review all entries for accuracy and completeness.

  6. 6

    Save the completed form to your device.

  7. 7

    File the form with the IRS by mailing it to the appropriate address.

Who is required to fill out Form 8971?

Form 8971 is completed by executors or administrators of an estate for reporting purposes. This form is used to provide beneficiaries with information about the value of inherited property.

After submission, beneficiaries of the estate use this form for their own tax reporting. It helps them understand the fair market value of the assets they received.

When is Form 8971 not required?

Form 8971 is not required for certain situations. If the estate's gross value is less than $11.7 million for 2021, the form isn't necessary. Additionally, if the estate does not have any property subject to estate tax, you can skip this form.

Beneficiaries who receive property without any tax implications also do not need to file Form 8971. Always check the latest IRS guidelines for any updates.

When is Form 8971 due?

The deadline for Form 8971 is 30 days after the date of the decedent's death. If the due date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day.

Make sure to file this form accurately to avoid penalties. Always double-check the information and keep a copy for your records to ensure everything is in order.

How to get a blank Form 8971?

To get a blank Form 8971, simply visit our website. The form is pre-loaded in our editor, allowing you to fill it out directly. Once completed, you can download it for your records. Remember, our platform does not support filing forms.

How to sign Form 8971 online?

To sign Form 8971 online using PDF Guru, first click on "Fill Form" to load the blank version in the PDF editor. Fill out all required fields accurately, ensuring your information matches official documents.

Once you complete the form, create a simple electronic signature if needed. Click "Done" to download the signed form for your records. Remember, PDF Guru does not support submission, so be sure to follow the filing guidelines provided by the IRS when submitting your form.

Where to file Form 8971?

Form 8971 must be filed by mail. Currently, there is no option to file this form online.

Be sure to send the completed form to the address specified in the instructions. Always check the latest IRS guidelines for updates.

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Frequently asked questions

  • What must be reported on Form 8971?

    Form 8971 requires reporting the inherited property, its valuation amount, and date of valuation for each beneficiary. It also ensures cost basis consistency under IRC Section 1014(f) by listing whether the asset increases the estate tax liability.

  • What information is needed to complete Form 8971?

    To complete Form 8971, you need the decedent's name, date of death, Social Security number (if applicable), executor's name, phone number, and Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). Additionally, list all beneficiaries and their tax ID numbers, along with details about the inherited property and its valuation.

  • How do I check the status of my Form 8971?

    You can check the status of your Form 8971 by contacting the IRS directly or using the IRS online tools to track your tax returns and forms. However, specific status updates for Form 8971 are not typically available through these general tools.

  • What happens if I make a mistake on Form 8971?

    If you make a mistake on Form 8971, you should correct it as soon as possible. Minor errors may be corrected without penalty, but intentional disregard of filing requirements can lead to significant penalties.

  • Can I amend Form 8971 after filing?

    Yes, you can amend Form 8971 after filing, but you must do so within the specified time frame to avoid additional penalties. It is recommended to correct any errors promptly to avoid complications.

  • What are the penalties for not filing Form 8971 on time?

    The penalty for not filing Form 8971 on time is $260 per information return. However, if the statements are provided within 30 days after the due date, the penalty is reduced to $50 per information return. Intentional disregard of the filing requirements can lead to far greater penalties.

  • How do I obtain a copy of my filed Form 8971?

    To obtain a copy of your filed Form 8971, you can contact the IRS directly or use their online services to request a copy of your tax return and supporting documents. However, specific instructions for obtaining a copy of Form 8971 are not detailed in the provided sources.

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