Tax Guide/Life events
Taxes when someone dies
Updated November 4, 2026
A final return reports income from January 1 to the date of death.
| Date of death | Final return due |
|---|---|
| January 1 to October 31 | April 30 of the next year |
| November 1 to December 31 | Six months after the date of death |
If the person or their spouse was self-employed, the April 30 date becomes June 15.
What usually happens
- Deemed sale: capital property is treated as sold at fair market value on death, with exceptions.
- Registered accounts: an RRSP or RRIF is usually taxed on the final return, unless it can roll to a spouse or eligible dependant.
- Spouse rollover: most assets can pass to a surviving spouse without immediate tax.
- Clearance certificate: ask for one with Form TX19 before distributing the estate. It helps protect the legal representative from personal liability for unpaid tax.