Obtaining Past Tax Returns

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A recent tax return for the decedent can be very helpful in discovering assets and debts, and in filing any current tax forms.

If you cannot easily find a recent return in the decedent's papers, or obtain one from the decedent's lawyer or tax accountant, then you can request access from the CRA:

Go to CRA: Represent a Client and sign in or register
As part of the process, you will have to send the CRA documentation such as a death certificate, the deceased's SIN, and a copy of the will or a Grant of Letters
Send a request in writing to a Tax Centre, putting the words "The Estate of the Late" in front of the deceased person's name
You can also call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 to ask about previous year returns

In Quebec, you can request past returns from Revenue Québec after registering as the estate liquidator with Revenue Québec.