Converting to a spousal return after starting a single return (spouse passed away)

[msauze]

I have started a return for my 85 year old mother.  I want to do a spousal return for my father who passed away in 2014.  How do I do both at the same time?

[TonyC11 · Accepted solution]

You cannot convert in mid-stream.You would need to start a new return with spousal prep.
It is still two distinct returns, no spousal,in Canada.
Given one is a deceased taxpayer I suggest keep them as separately prepared returns.

[msauze]

Thanks for the reply Tony.  If I keep them as seperate returns, do I not lose the opportunity for tax savings?