What might indicate that you should file an estate tax return?

Filing an estate tax return is generally required when the value of the estate exceeds the applicable exemption limit set by the IRS. This threshold determines whether the estate is subject to federal estate taxes. As of 2023, estates valued over a specific amount— which is subject to change with inflation and tax law adjustments—must file a return. This ensures compliance with tax obligations and allows for the potential calculation of any taxes owed, depending on the estate's total value after allowable deductions.

While the other factors mentioned may relate to the overall management or contesting of an estate, they do not provide a direct requirement to file an estate tax return. An estate’s value being below a certain threshold would not necessitate filing, beneficiaries contesting a will does not inherently involve tax matters, and owning personal property does not, by itself, indicate that the estate exceeds the exemption limit. Thus, the correct answer focuses specifically on the financial threshold that dictates the necessity to file an estate tax return.