The Maryland 504 Form is a tax return specifically designed for fiduciaries, such as executors of estates or trustees of trusts. It is used to report the income earned by the estate or trust during the tax year. This form is essential for calculating the fiduciary income tax owed to the state of Maryland. It includes various sections that require detailed information about the estate or trust, its income, and any deductions or credits that may apply.
The Maryland 504 Form must be filed by fiduciaries managing estates or trusts that have generated income during the tax year. This includes:
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Decedent's estates
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Simple trusts
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Complex trusts
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Grantor-type trusts
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Bankruptcy estates
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Qualified funeral trusts
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Other types of trusts or estates as applicable
If the estate or trust has a federal employer identification number and meets the income thresholds, filing is required.
To accurately complete the Maryland 504 Form, fiduciaries need to gather several pieces of information, including:
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Federal employer identification number (FEIN)
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Name and address of the estate or trust
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Name and title of the fiduciary
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Type of entity (e.g., decedent’s estate, simple trust, etc.)
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Date of death of the decedent (if applicable)
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Domicile of the decedent
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Social Security number of the decedent (if applicable)
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Income details from federal Form 1041
Having this information ready will streamline the filing process and help ensure accuracy.
The Maryland 504 Form can be filed either by mail or electronically. If filing by mail, the completed form should be sent to the Comptroller of Maryland, Revenue Administration Division, at the designated address. If filing electronically, fiduciaries can use the Maryland Comptroller's online services. Ensure that all required documentation, such as federal Form 1041 and any supporting schedules, is attached if necessary.
The deadline for filing the Maryland 504 Form generally aligns with the federal tax return deadlines. For estates and trusts, this is typically April 15 of the following year for calendar year filers. If the fiduciary needs additional time, an extension can be requested, but it is crucial to file the extension form before the original deadline to avoid penalties.
If there are errors or changes that need to be made after the Maryland 504 Form has been filed, an amended return must be submitted. To do this, check the appropriate box indicating that it is an amended return, and provide a detailed explanation of the changes. It's also essential to attach any revised federal forms if applicable. This ensures that the state has the most accurate and updated information.
Yes, the Maryland 504 Form allows for various deductions and credits that can reduce the overall tax liability. Some common deductions include:
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Nonresident beneficiary deductions for income earned by nonresidents
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Credits for taxes paid to other states
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Contributions to specific state funds, such as the Chesapeake Bay and Endangered Species Fund
Fiduciaries should review the instructions carefully to determine eligibility for these credits and ensure they are claimed appropriately.