Can You File Taxes for Someone Else?

The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2025 (returns filed in 2026).

Wondering if you can file taxes for someone else? You’ll be glad to know it’s perfectly legal, as long as you have their permission. Whether you’re helping a friend, family member, or dependent, you can assist them with tax preparation, but they will still need to sign and file the return themselves unless you have official authorization, like a Power of Attorney.

Here’s what you need to know:

When to file taxes for someone else

There are many situations when someone might need help filing taxes. You may need to file for:

A dependent who earned income
Aging parents or elderly relatives
A friend who doesn’t speak English
A deceased family member’s final tax return

What you need

Tax preparation requires gathering important documents. If you’re helping someone else file their taxes, make sure to collect the following information and records: This includes income statements like W-2s or 1099s, records of deductible expenses, and any relevant tax identification numbers. Double-check all details to ensure accuracy, as missing or incorrect information can lead to tax filing mistakes to avoid. Reviewing the forms thoroughly before submission can save time and prevent potential complications with the IRS.

Name, birth date, tax ID, Social Security number (SSN)
Income and investment records (e.g., W-2s, 1099s, or 1099-DIV)
Charitable donation receipts
Expense records (medical, education, etc.)
Self-employment or business documents (e.g., 1099-NEC)
Homeowner information (property tax, mortgage interest)

You’ll also need a copy of their previous year’s tax return, which can be retrieved through the IRS or a third-party e-filing service like ezTaxReturn.

Additionally, if you’re helping them receive a tax refund, you may need their bank account details for direct deposit.

How to file taxes for someone else

If you plan to help someone file taxes, keep the following in mind:

You can file up to five tax returns electronically, including for others.
The taxpayer remains ultimately responsible for the accuracy of their tax return.
As a non-professional, you cannot charge a fee for your tax services.

Filing taxes for a dependent

If you have a child who earned income, they may need to file a tax return. You can assist with the process or handle it completely if they don’t understand the steps involved.

Make sure to note on the tax return that they are a dependent on your return. Do not include their income on your own return. Their taxes should be filed separately.

Filing taxes for an elderly parent

Many adult children assist their aging parents with tax preparation. If you’re helping an elderly relative file their taxes, be aware that seniors often have different filing requirements. For example:

Single seniors over 65 don’t need to file unless their income exceeds $17,750.
Married seniors over 65 only need to file jointly if their combined income exceeds $34,700.

Keep in mind that Social Security benefits can be taxable based on their overall income level. Be sure to look out for specific tax credits and deductions for seniors, such as:

Claiming a parent as a dependent

If you’re the primary caregiver for a parent, you may be able to claim them as a dependent on your tax return, which can simplify the process. To claim your parent as a dependent, you must meet certain requirements, including:

You are not a dependent of another taxpayer.
Your parent is not married or doesn’t file a joint return.
You provided more than half of their financial support during the year.
Your parent’s gross income was below $5,200.
Your parent is not the dependent of someone else.

If you qualify, you may also be eligible to file as Head of Household, which can offer a better tax rate and higher standard deduction.

Signing the tax return for an elderly parent

If your parent cannot sign their tax return, you can sign it on their behalf, but only if you have Power of Attorney or are their court-appointed guardian. You’ll need to file IRS Form 2848 to provide authorization.

Filing taxes for a deceased family member

If a family member passes away, you may still need to file their final tax return as part of settling their estate. This responsibility usually falls to the executor of the estate or surviving spouse.

Important note: Tax returns for a deceased person are due by the regular filing deadline of the following year, and you may need to file multiple returns, depending on the date of death.

For instance, if the person passed away in January 2025, you may need to file returns for 2024 and 2025.

If the deceased person owes taxes, the estate will be responsible for paying those taxes, but you can arrange a payment plan with the IRS if necessary.

How to file taxes for someone else with ezTaxReturn

If you’re helping someone else file taxes, ezTaxReturn is an easy and reliable option. Here’s how to get started:

Create an account: You’ll need a separate account for each person you’re filing taxes for.
Enter their tax ID: Carefully enter the person’s name, birth date, and SSN or ITIN.
Follow the step-by-step process: ezTaxReturn will guide you through the filing process, making sure you don’t miss any deductions or credits.
e-File the return: Once completed, submit the return electronically. You’ll receive IRS confirmation within 24 hours and can expect a refund within 21 days.

Filing taxes for someone else doesn’t have to be stressful. With ezTaxReturn, you can ensure their taxes are filed accurately, and the best possible refund is secured.

Help a Loved One File

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file taxes for another person?

Yes, you can file taxes for someone else if you have their signed tax forms and authorization. This is common for family members, elderly relatives, or clients if you are a tax professional.

Do I need a Power of Attorney to file taxes for someone else?

Not always. A signed Form 8879 (IRS e-file Signature Authorization) is typically enough for e-filing, but a Power of Attorney (Form 2848) may be needed if you interact with the IRS on their behalf.

Can I file taxes for a spouse?

Yes. Spouses can file joint or separate returns, but both must sign the return. Tax software often allows one spouse to e-sign for the other if both agree.

Can a tax preparer file taxes for clients?

Yes. Licensed tax professionals, CPAs, and enrolled agents can file taxes for clients with proper authorization and signatures. They must also comply with IRS regulations.

What documents do I need to file taxes for someone else?

You’ll need W-2s, 1099s, deduction records, Social Security numbers, and any other income or expense documentation. Make sure the taxpayer reviews all information before submission.

Can I e-file taxes for someone else?

Yes, with a signed Form 8879 from the taxpayer, you can e-file on their behalf using tax software or through a professional e-file provider.

Are there risks to filing taxes for someone else?

Yes. Errors, missing information, or fraudulent claims can result in penalties or IRS audits. Always double-check documents and ensure authorization.

Can I claim someone else’s tax refund?

No. Refunds must go to the taxpayer or their authorized bank account. You cannot legally redirect a refund to yourself unless explicitly authorized.

Can I file taxes for a deceased person?

Yes. The executor or personal representative of the estate can file a final tax return for the deceased using their tax documents and IRS Form 1310 if claiming a refund.

How can tax software help me file for someone else?

Tax software like ezTaxReturn guides you through forms, e-signatures, and submission for another taxpayer while reducing errors and ensuring IRS compliance.