Departments » Estate Tax » Filing Requirements


  • Form 12 & Form 14 (Tax Release)

These forms should be filed with the County Auditor where the decedent resided.

  • Complete the application (Form 12) with an original signature and a copy.
  • Complete tax release (Form 14) for each institution.
  • Letter from the bank, bank statements or savings passbook and certificates must be presented with this application.
  • For P.O.D. accounts, present passbook and letter from bank giving name of undisclosed beneficiary and relationship to decedent.
  • For joint and survivorship property, give name and relationship of survivor to decedent.
  • For any investment portfolios or living trusts assets released must complete (Form 12) itemizing all assets controlled by these instruments. Form 14 will accompany for each item.

  • Form 13 (Consent To Transfer)
  • This form is used for insurance policies, annuities, Keogh plans, employer-related death benefits, etc.
  • Complete the application (Form 13) with an original signature and two copies.
  • Our office releases one per policy not per beneficiary.

  • Ohio Estate Tax Return
  • When filing the return (Form 2), it must be filed in duplicate in Probate Court with the accounts desk.
  • If the estate is taxable, Form 5 and Form 22 must accompany the estate tax return.
  • If the estate is non-taxable, Form 22 must accompany the estate tax return.

  • Form 17 is filed in duplicate and used for:
  • Estimated payment
  • Additional tax payment
  • Interest only payment
  • Penalty payment
  • Deficiency payment

On Form 17 please provide us with the social security number of the decedent.