Deceased Estate — Trust Tax Return (Testamentary Trust / Estate as Trust)

Issuing authority

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

Official source

How to apply

1. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) for the deceased estate using NAT 3236 (TFN application for a deceased estate) if the estate does not already have one — required before lodging a trust return.
2. Determine whether a trust tax return is required: if the estate earns income and has not been finalised within the income year, a Trust tax return (NAT 0660) must be lodged for that year.
3. In the first year, consider applying for the concessional tax rate at individual income tax rates with the full tax-free threshold, available for up to the first 3 income years of the estate (apply via the trust return).
4. Obtain the current year Trust tax return (NAT 0660) from ato.gov.au or order via 1300 720 092; read the Trust tax return instructions for deceased estates (Appendix 8 or 9 of the instructions).
5. Complete the return including all estate income (interest, rent, dividends, capital gains) and any distributions to beneficiaries who are presently entitled to income.
6. Where a testamentary trust continues after the estate is finalised, lodge annual trust tax returns in the trust's own name for each income year the trust earns income.
7. Lodge the completed paper Trust tax return by 31 October, or via a registered tax agent under the lodgement program schedule.
8. Pay any tax assessed before making distributions; obtain a clearance or final assessment confirmation before winding up the trust.

Related topics

Related forms

• Deceased Estate — Date of Death Tax Return (Final Individual Return)NAT 2671
• Apply for Probate
• Letters of Administration (No Will)
• Family Provision Application (Disputing a Will)
• Caveat Against Probate