How to Compile Supplemental Documents for Estate Form 706

7 of 8 in Series:
The Essentials of Filing the Estate Tax Return (Form 706)

While preparing Form 706, you will probably accumulate a pile of supporting documentation. These supplemental documents need to be organized and included when you file Form 706. The organization of these documents, and any references made in the 706 to supplemental materials, should be as clear as possible.

Attach whichever of the following documents are applicable in your decedent’s estate to the return when you file it. Consider preparing an index of exhibits. Attach the index directly behind the 706 and label each of the documents on its face as Exhibit A, Exhibit B, and so on.

It is a good idea to use index tabs for each exhibit.

When referring to each of the attached documents in the 706, you can give them specific names (Exhibit A, for example) for clarity.

Among the documents to attach to the return are

• A certified copy of the decedent’s death certificate (required in all cases).

  
  



• A certified copy of the will, if the decedent died with a will. You obtain certified copies of the will from the court where the will was filed for probate. If you’re unable to get a certified copy, attach an uncertified copy and explain why it’s not certified.

  
  



• IRS Power of Attorney (Form 2848).

  
  



• Receipt for payment of state inheritance or estate tax.

  
  



• Appraisals of property.

  
  



• Life insurance statements (Forms 712).

  
  



• Gift tax returns (Forms 709).

  
  



• Certificates of Payment of Foreign Death Tax (Forms 706-CE).

  
  



• Copies of trust instruments.

  
  



• Earnings statements and balance sheets for closely held businesses.

  
  

If the decedent was a US citizen but not a resident, you need to attach the following additional documentation:

• A copy of the property inventory and schedule of liabilities, claims against the estate, and administration expenses as filed with the foreign court, certified by the appropriate official of the foreign court.

  
  



• If the estate is subject to a foreign tax, a copy of the tax return filed under the foreign death tax act, whether estate, inheritance, succession, legacy, or otherwise.

  
  



• A copy of the will, if the decedent died testate (with a valid will).

  
  

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