Detailed Answer
When you act as an executor (personal representative) of an estate in Alaska, you often need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to open bank accounts, file federal tax returns, and manage estate assets. The EIN serves as the estate’s Social Security number for tax purposes. Although the Alaska Probate Code assigns you broad duties to collect and distribute estate assets (AS 13.16.015), obtaining an EIN is a federal process handled by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Follow these steps:
1. Confirm Your Appointment
First, secure your Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration from the Alaska court. These documents officially appoint you as executor. You will need a certified copy when applying for an EIN.
2. Gather Required Information
- Estate’s legal name (e.g., “Estate of Jane Doe, Deceased”).
- Decedent’s Social Security number and date of death.
- Your name and Social Security number as the executor.
- Estate mailing address in Alaska.
- Reason for applying: “Probate Estate.”
- Estate’s start date (date of death).
3. Choose an Application Method
The IRS provides multiple options for obtaining an EIN:
- Online: The fastest method is the IRS EIN Online Assistant (irs.gov/EIN). You must complete the application in one session.
- Fax: Complete IRS Form SS-4 and fax it to the designated EIN fax number. You’ll receive your EIN by return fax within four business days.
- Mail: Mail the completed Form SS-4 to the IRS service center. Processing takes about four to six weeks.
- Phone (International Applicants only): If the executor’s address is outside the U.S., you can call the IRS at +1-267-941-1099.
4. Complete Form SS-4
Download Form SS-4 from the IRS website. Fill in the sections as follows:
- Line 1: Estate’s legal name.
- Line 7b: Executor’s name and SSN.
- Line 8a: Executor’s address in Alaska.
- Line 9a: Type of entity – check “Estate.”
- Line 10: Reason – enter “Probate Estate.”
- Line 11: Date of decedent’s death.
5. Submit the Application
Use your chosen method to submit. If applying online, print the EIN confirmation notice. If faxing, keep a copy of the fax confirmation. If mailing, use certified mail for tracking. Retain all documents in the estate’s records.
6. Use Your EIN
Once issued, use the EIN to:
- Open estate bank and investment accounts.
- File federal estate and income tax returns (IRS Form 1041).
- Pay debts and distribute assets properly under AS 13.16.100.
Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Helpful Hints
- Apply early: Obtain the EIN soon after appointment to avoid delays in managing estate funds.
- Keep copies: Maintain digital and physical copies of Form SS-4 and the EIN confirmation.
- Secure records: Store all probate documents, including Letters Testamentary, in a safe place.
- Watch deadlines: Alaska requires timely estate administration under AS 13.16.400.
- Consult professionals: Consider a tax professional for complicated estates or out-of-state asset issues.