2025 1041 estimates received years after estate closed

[PATAX]

Good client and friend died many years ago. The attorney prepared all relevant federal and state estate/inheritance returns and properly closed the estate years ago. The attorney did a great job. Now years later the executor (also client and friend) unexpectedly received four 2025 1041 estimated tax payment forms. Anyone have similar experience? Any possible reason for it? Thank you very much.

[sjrcpa]

Don't know but does it matter?  Shred them and ignore.

I think I've seen 1040-ES vouchers sent to dead people before.

[PATAX]

Thanks Sue.

[IRonMaN]

Yeah, I’ve seen those things pop up in the mail for no real reason.

[BobKamman]

Someone got the name and EIN and filed a 1041 last year claiming a $5,000 refund from withholding.  Or maybe made up some numbers that showed a loss on a K-1 that was then filed by an identity thief.  

Was the last 1041 filed marked "Final"?  Would that have made a difference?  

[PATAX]

Thanks Ironman.

[PATAX]

Thanks Bob. The attorney is very thorough, so I am sure it was marked "Final".

[BobKamman]

You didn't prepare the 1041s?  In any case, my bet is that a 2024 return was filed.  In normal times, IRS would be able to tell you if that happened.  

[PATAX]

The attorney prepared the 1041, which is the norm here.

[PATAX]

Client called attorney. A few clients of attorney also unexpectedly received 1041 estimates. Could be just a minor mailing issue like Sue and Ironman said. Thank you to all for responding. 

[BobKamman]

Or, it could be the attorney's files were the only ones hacked.  I do a lot of balance-due 1041 returns, and my clients haven't received any unexpected forms.  

[PATAX]

Could be regional issue.

[Picci]

I just received a 1041-ES by mail with estimated payment envelopes. My father's estate was properly closed over 20 years ago by his lawyer. I called IRS, waited 30 minutes to speak with a representative who informed me that many people have called about receiving this form in error. She gave me the updated number to call as 1041 are now being processed by  the IRS' business sector. When I called that number and made the selection for this form, the recorded message said there is no longer a representative to answer any questions and that I should refer to the IRS website FAQ for more information. So, I will refer this to my accountant. Thank you for posting. I nearly had a heart attack when I opened my mail.

[PATAX]

@Picci Thank you very much for sharing that information with us. We appreciate it.