Posted by:
Gordon B. Stinky
(
)
Date: February 04, 2023 07:10PM
So, this is really off-topic, but there are so many people who know so many things...
I just received a check from the IRS (out of the blue). In the memo is "tax refund 2017." My wife passed away in 2017. It's made out like this:
GORDON B STINKY
GORDON B & JANE D DECD STINKY
The envelope says "If recipient deceased check here and drop in mailbox."
The IRS knows that my wife is deceased (you indicate it on the last tax return--we filed jointly). They seem to even indicate it on the second "pay to" line (DECS). So, why include her name at all? Or why send it, since they know she's deceased? Why not send it to me alone?
My wife's financial affairs were settled back in 2017. I can't just cash a check that's made out to her. But this one is made out to both of us. And also to just me. ?? (first line, me; second line both of us).
Can I cash this check? Or do I need to send it back?