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The ET-117 form is an essential document in the estate tax process in New York State, specifically designed to facilitate the release of a lien on real property or cooperative apartments. When a decedent passes away, their estate may incur outstanding estate taxes, which can result in a lien on their property. This lien remains until the estate taxes are settled. The ET-117 form allows executors or administrators of estates to formally request the release of such liens, ensuring that property can be transferred or sold without legal complications. Importantly, there is no fee associated with filing this form. When completing the ET-117, individuals must specify whether they have filed an estate tax return, such as Form ET-706 or ET-90. If they have not filed a return, the ET-117 must be submitted along with these forms. The application requires detailed information, including property descriptions, addresses, and pertinent identification numbers for ease of processing. It is crucial for those involved to understand that filing the ET-117 does not eliminate the responsibility to pay estate taxes fully; rather, it helps clear the way for property transactions while still adhering to state tax laws. Furthermore, liability for unpaid estate taxes may extend to spouses, beneficiaries, and others who possess property from the estate, emphasizing the importance of meticulous adherence to procedural requirements outlined in the ET-117 filing process.

Form Sample

Department of Taxation and Finance

ET-117

Release of Lien of Estate Tax

(10/16)

 

Real property or cooperative apartment

There is no fee for a release of lien.

Name

Address

City, state, ZIP code

Type or print the name and mailing address of the person to whom this form should be returned.

Have you iled a New York State estate tax return (either Form ET-706 or ET-90) for the estate? Mark an X in the applicable box.

Yes: If you are iling an amended return, mail the completed Form ET-117 with the amended return to the address shown on that return. If you are not amending a return, mail the completed Form ET-117 to NYS Estate Tax Processing Center, PO Box 15167, Albany NY 12212-5167.

No: You must mail the completed Form ET-117 with Form ET-706, Form ET-90, Form ET-85, Form ET-30, Form TT-385 or Form TT-102 to the address shown on that form.

Estate of

Date of death

County of residence at time of death*

* If the decedent was not a resident of New York State at the time of death, enter NONRESIDENT.

Complete this section for real property. You may list up to two parcels in the same county; use a separate Form ET-117 for each county. File the validated release of lien with the county clerk or commissioner of deeds.

The book of deeds or liber number, page number, and map number are shown on the recorded deed. The section, block, and lot numbers are shown on the property tax bills.

Book of deeds or liber number

 

At page number

 

Map number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section number

Block number

Lot number

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property address

Street or road

City, town, or village

County

 

 

 

 

 

 

Book of deeds or liber number

 

At page number

 

Map number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section number

Block number

Lot number

 

 

 

 

 

Property address

Street or road

City, town, or village

County

 

 

 

 

 

 

Complete this section for cooperative apartments. If you entered real property above, do not complete this section; use a separate Form ET-117. Also, you must use a separate Form ET-117 for each cooperative corporation and purchaser. Give the validated release of lien to the purchaser.

Name of cooperative corporation

Address of cooperative apartment

Apartment number(s)

 

Street or road

 

 

 

 

City, town, or village

State

County

ZIP code

 

 

 

Number of shares associated with proprietary lease for apartment(s) listed above

 

 

Pursuant to the provisions of section 249-bb or section 982(c) of the Tax Law, the lien (if any) of the estate tax imposed by Article 10-C or Article 26 of the Tax Law is hereby released with respect to the property described above.

Date

Deputy commissioner

This release is not valid unless the state seal is afixed by the Tax Department to the right of the property description. Each completed description requires a separate seal.

Note: The executor may be held personally liable for unpaid estate tax up to the value of the assets that were distributed before the NYS estate tax was paid in full. The surviving spouse, all beneiciaries, and any other person in possession of property included in the NY gross estate may be held personally

liable for unpaid estate tax up to the value of property received from the estate (NYS Tax Law section 975).

Document Specifications

Fact Name Detail
Form Purpose The ET-117 form is used to release a lien on estate tax for real property or cooperative apartments in New York State.
Filing Fee There is no fee for submitting the ET-117 form.
Return Address The completed form should be mailed to the appropriate address based on whether you are filing an amended return or not.
Estate Tax Return Requirement You must have filed either Form ET-706 or ET-90 to be eligible to use ET-117.
Non-residents If the decedent was not a resident of New York at the time of death, indicate "NONRESIDENT" on the form.
Multiple Properties You can list up to two parcels in the same county on the ET-117; separate forms must be used for different counties.
Cooperative Apartments A separate ET-117 must be completed for cooperative apartments if real property details have been filled out.
Estate Tax Liability Executors and beneficiaries may be held personally liable for unpaid estate taxes up to the value of distributed assets.
Legal References The form references New York State Tax Law sections 249-bb and 982(c) regarding the estate tax lien release.
State Seal Requirement The release is not valid unless it bears the state seal affixed by the Tax Department.

Steps to Filling Out Et 117

Completing the ET-117 form requires attention to detail. This form is necessary for those seeking a release of lien concerning estate tax on real property or cooperative apartments. Following the steps outlined here will ensure that you provide all the required information in a clear and concise manner. After submitting the form, it will facilitate the processing of your request, allowing for the proper management of the estate's tax obligations.

  1. Begin by providing your name and mailing address at the top of the form. Ensure that the details are typed or printed clearly to avoid processing delays.
  2. Indicate whether a New York State estate tax return has been filed. Mark an X in the appropriate box—'Yes' or 'No'. If ‘Yes’, follow the instructions for amending or not amending as provided in the form.
  3. Fill in the estate of the decedent, including the date of death and the county of residence at the time of death. If the decedent was not a resident of New York State, write 'NONRESIDENT'.
  4. Complete the section for real property. You may enter details for up to two parcels in the same county. Include the book of deeds or liber number, page number, map number, section number, block number, and lot number. Be sure to furnish the property address, including the street, city, town, or village, and county.
  5. If applicable, complete the section for cooperative apartments. Only fill this out if you are not listing any real property. Include the name of the cooperative corporation, address of the cooperative apartment, and the apartment number(s). Input the necessary details such as street, city, state, county, and ZIP code. Also, state the number of shares associated with the proprietary lease for the listed apartment(s).
  6. Ensure the form is signed and dated appropriately. A deputy commissioner must also sign beside the property description, and the form will not be valid without the state seal affixed.
  7. Make copies for your records before mailing the completed form. If applicable, send it along with any necessary estate tax forms to the specified address.

More About Et 117

What is the purpose of the ET 117 form?

The ET 117 form, known as the Release of Lien of Estate Tax, is used to release any lien associated with the estate tax on real property or cooperative apartments in New York State. When the estate tax is paid or if certain conditions are met, this form confirms that the tax lien is no longer applicable, allowing the property to be freely transferred or sold.

Is there a fee for filing the ET 117 form?

No, there is no fee required for filing the ET 117 form. This means that you can submit the form without worrying about any associated costs, making it easier for you to manage estate-related paperwork.

Who should file the ET 117 form?

What documentation do I need to submit with the form?

How do I complete the property section on the ET 117 form?

What should I do after filing the ET 117 form?

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Failing to fill out all required fields on the ET-117 form can lead to delays. Every section must be completed accurately.

  2. Incorrect Attachment: Submitting the ET-117 without the necessary estate tax return (ET-706 or ET-90) can result in the form being returned or denied. Ensure that the correct documents are included.

  3. Improper Mailing Address: Sending the completed form to the wrong address is a common error. Use the NYS Estate Tax Processing Center address specified in the instructions for submission.

  4. Lack of Accurate Property Descriptions: When listing real property or cooperative apartments, it is crucial to provide precise details such as book of deeds, section, block, and lot numbers. Missing information can lead to complications in processing.

  5. Not Following Additional Filing Requirements: Failing to use separate forms for multiple properties or cooperative corporations can create issues. Each parcel or corporation needs a distinct ET-117 for processing.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with estate taxes in New York, the ET-117 form is just one of several necessary documents. Understanding these accompanying forms can help streamline the process of releasing a lien on estate tax and ensure compliance. Below is a list of related forms that are often used in conjunction with the ET-117 form.

  • Form ET-706: This is the New York State Estate Tax Return. It must be filed for estates exceeding a certain value threshold. It details all assets and liabilities of the deceased.
  • Form ET-90: This is a simplified estate tax return for smaller estates that do not exceed a specified value. It simplifies the filing process, making it less burdensome for smaller estates.
  • Form ET-85: This form is used for requesting a waiver of the estate tax lien. It is typically filed when one wants to clear a property title prior to transferring ownership.
  • Form ET-30: This is the Application for Extension of Time to File a New York State Estate Tax Return. Executors use this form when they need additional time beyond the standard filing deadline.
  • Form TT-385: This form serves as a tax clearance request. It’s often necessary for estates transitioning ownership of property to ensure outstanding tax obligations have been satisfied.
  • Form TT-102: This is a notice of estate tax adjustment. It addresses adjustments made to previously filed estate tax returns and may result in additional taxes owed or refunds due.
  • Form DTF-17: This is a New York State application for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). Executors must provide a TIN when filing tax returns on behalf of the deceased estate.
  • Form IT-201: This is the New York State Resident Income Tax Return. If the deceased was receiving income, this form helps report any income generated by the estate after death.
  • Form CPD-5: This is the certificate of the estate tax lien. It establishes the priority of the estate tax claim against the estate and serves as an official record.
  • Form DTF-5: This is a final release form for estate taxes owed. It proves that the estate’s tax obligations have been met and no further taxes are due.

In understanding these forms and their purposes, individuals managing an estate can navigate the complexities of New York’s estate tax system more effectively. It is essential to file the correct forms timely to avoid complications and ensure a smooth transfer of property.

Similar forms

The Form ET-706, New York Estate Tax Return, is one of the primary documents related to estate tax. It is used to calculate the total estate tax liability of a decedent’s estate. Similar to the ET-117, it requires details about the decedent and the estate. Once the tax has been assessed, a lien may be placed against the estate, which the ET-117 can later release. Both forms require specific property details and share a common purpose surrounding the management and distribution of estate assets.

The Form ET-90, Claim for Refund for New York Estate Tax, serves a related function. It permits individuals to request refunds on any estate tax overpayments. Like the ET-117, the ET-90 requires the filer to provide details about the decedent and the estate. In the event that a return shows excess payments, the refund process begins, potentially leading to a release of liens similar to the ET-117. Each form plays a role in the tax lifecycle of an estate.

Form ET-85, New York State Affidavit of No Estate Tax Due, allows executors or administrators to confirm that no estate tax is owed. This document is crucial when handling assets after a death. It serves a similar purpose to the ET-117, which officially releases taxes on properties of the estate. Both forms assure interested parties that tax liabilities have been satisfied or are not present, which facilitates smoother property transactions.

The Form ET-30, New York State Estate Tax Extension Form, grants an extension for filing the estate tax return. This form encourages compliance by providing additional time for preparation. While the ET-117 is used for releasing liens on properties, the ET-30 helps to establish the timeline necessary for filing the documents associated with estate taxes. Both are essential in managing the estate's tax responsibilities.

The Form TT-385, Application for Estate Tax Exemption for Certain Multistate Estates, is also closely related to the ET-117. It is used by estates that qualify for a tax exemption under specific conditions. When completed and accepted, this form can ease the estate tax burden, similar to the lien release offered by the ET-117. Both forms require similar identification of the assets and beneficiaries involved.

Form TT-102, Application for Reinstatement of Estate Tax Exemption, works similarly by allowing estates to apply for reinstatement of tax exemptions that may have expired otherwise. This application can lead to the resolution of tax disputes related to estate tax liabilities. The ET-117 is then used to release any liens if the exemptions are granted. Each document is integral in ensuring that the estate tax obligations are properly managed.

The Form IRS 706, United States Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return, is a federal counterpart to the New York tax forms. It is necessary for reporting the value of an estate and calculating any federal estate tax owed. While the ET-117 releases property from a state lien, the IRS 706 ensures all federal obligations are addressed. Together, they streamline the process of settling an estate.

Form IRS 709, United States Gift (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return, impacts estate planning by addressing gifts made during the lifetime of the decedent. This form allows for the appropriate accumulation of tax obligations that may influence the estate's value. The proper handling of this form may affect the claims resulting in releases on the estate’s properties, similar to what the ET-117 accomplishes.

The Form New York State Form 1040, Individual Income Tax Return, focuses on the decedent’s income tax obligations rather than estate taxes. While it serves a different purpose, it is equally important for resolving financial matters following a death. Understanding the combined implications of estate and income taxes is crucial for administering an estate effectively, tying it back to the significance of liens like those managed with the ET-117.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the ET-117 form, there are essential guidelines to follow. Proper adherence to these steps will ensure the process goes smoothly.

  • Do ensure that you accurately complete all required sections of the form, including the name, address, and details of the real property or cooperative apartment.
  • Do check whether you have filed the necessary New York State estate tax return before submitting the ET-117. This is a critical step.
  • Do mail the completed form to the correct address, which depends on whether you are filing an amended return or not.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed ET-117 and any related documents for your records.
  • Don't neglect to use separate forms for each county or for cooperative corporations associated with the estate.
  • Don't forget to file the validated release of lien with the county clerk, as this is necessary for the release to be effective.
  • Don't falsify or provide inaccurate information on the form, as this could lead to legal repercussions.
  • Don't submit the ET-117 form without ensuring that the state seal is affixed, as the release will not be valid without it.

Misconceptions

Understanding the ET-117 form can be challenging due to various misconceptions. Here’s a list that clarifies common misunderstandings:

  1. There is a fee for filing the ET-117 form. Many believe that submitting this form incurs a fee. However, there is no charge for a release of lien.
  2. Only residents of New York can file the form. Anyone, including non-residents, can file the ET-117 if they have property that falls under New York estate tax rules.
  3. One form suffices for multiple properties. Each property in a different county requires a separate ET-117 form, contradicting the belief that one form can cover multiple locations.
  4. This form can be submitted without a prior estate tax return. It is essential to file either the ET-706 or ET-90 to proceed with the ET-117. Submitting it without these forms can result in delays.
  5. There's no need to file with the county clerk. For the release of lien to be valid, it must be filed with the appropriate county clerk or commissioner of deeds.
  6. Executors are free from liability once the form is submitted. Executors may still face personal liability for unpaid estate taxes, so they should proceed cautiously.
  7. The ET-117 form is only for real property. This misconception overlooks that the form is also applicable for cooperative apartments and requires separate submissions for each.
  8. All information on the form is optional. In fact, accurately completing all sections, including property details and estate information, is crucial for validation.
  9. The state seal isn't necessary for all submissions. The absence of the state seal invalidates the release, highlighting its importance in the process.
  10. The form can be filed electronically. Currently, the ET-117 must be mailed physically; electronic submission is not applicable.

Key takeaways

Understanding the ET-117 Form is essential for efficiently managing estate tax liens. Here are key considerations:

  • No Fee for Release: There is no cost associated with obtaining a release of lien using the ET-117 form. This is beneficial for estate administrators.
  • Filing Requirements: If a New York State estate tax return has been filed (Form ET-706 or ET-90), submit the completed ET-117 with the appropriate return. For non-amended filings, the form must be sent directly to the NYS Estate Tax Processing Center.
  • Property Specifics: The ET-117 allows for the listing of up to two parcels of real estate within the same county. For properties in different counties or for cooperative apartments, a separate form must be completed.
  • Executor Liability: The executor may become personally responsible for any unpaid estate tax related to distributed assets. This includes potential liability for surviving spouses and beneficiaries based on the value of their inherited property.