Review decedent’s recent tax returns

Each year when we file our taxes, we list all sorts of assets and debts. Tax returns can be a great place to find a listing of assets from the previous year. If the decedent provided itemized deductions on his or her taxes, you also might find charitable organizations that the decedent preferred. This can come in handy when it is time to donate things such as old clothes to charity. By finding out where the decedent typically donated such items, you can continue to use the organization.

If you cannot find a copy of the most recent tax return and you know the decedent used a particular accountant or filing service, you can contact that company to see if you can get a copy. They often keep copies of returns they prepare. Remember that you will likely need to provide evidence of your executor role, such as a copy of the death certificate and letters of testamentary.