What Forms Do I Need to File a Deceased Person's Final Return (T1 and T4011) in Canada?

This answer covers Canadian federal tax law, which applies in every province.

You need the final T1 return for the year of death, plus other forms that match what the person owned and earned. The CRA's guide T4011 was cancelled on 2025-02-05 and replaced by web pages, so it is no longer the current guide. The core package is the T1 for the year of death and the province of residence at death, with Form 428 outside Québec. Add Schedule 3 and Form T1255 for capital gains or a principal residence, and bring in slips such as the T4, T5, T4A(P) and T4(OAS).

The CRA also needs proof that you are the legal representative. Send a death certificate or funeral director's statement of death, and a legal document naming the executor, such as the complete will or a court document confirming the appointment, each showing the deceased's SIN. If there is no will or executor, or the court appointment is pending, Form RC552 lets you manage CRA matters only. You can file the final return before probate.

Other forms depend on the estate. Form AUT-01 adds representatives such as an accountant, T1139 covers proprietor returns, and T3RET is for the estate. A lawyer or accountant can confirm which apply to your situation.