Do I need to file tax return for a deceased father with no assets?

My father passed away a couple of weeks ago with $0 assets left to his name and only a reverse mortgage and some credit card and medical bills. I'm the only next of kin left and I don't want to be the estate administrator given that there is no estate. If I just walk away and let the state take care of it, would I still have to file a last tax return for him or should I just leave everything and let the state sort that out too? Would I need to contact some state agency to let them know what's going on?
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Answered By: David Hoines Law
A person appointed by the court as personal representative of his estate is responsible for filing last tax return. So, you are responsible to do so if you follow the course you described.

Answer Applies to: Florida
Replied: 7/13/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

Answered By: Steven J. Fromm
If your father had income below the federal filing threshold no final income tax return need be filed. As to his estate, you are not required to probate his estate especially in the current situation where his estate is insolvent.

Answer Applies to: Pennsylvania
Replied: 7/13/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

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