Guides
Deep, plain-English guides on the topics families search for most — written to be understood while you're grieving, not to sell you legalese.
Power of Attorney
A plain-English guide to power of attorney: what it is, the types (durable, medical, general), how to get one, cost, and why it ends at death.
Read the guideVital Records
Learn how to get a death certificate, how many certified copies to order, cost, timeline, who can request one, and how to order from state vital records.
Read the guideProbate
A plain-English guide to probate: what it is, the step-by-step court process, how long it takes, what it costs, and proven ways to avoid it.
Read the guideEstate Administration
Learn executor duties and estate administration step by step: getting Letters of Testamentary, notifying institutions, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets.
Read the guideEstate Planning
Wills and trusts explained in plain English: what a will is, how a living trust works, key differences, probate, costs, and whether you need one or both.
Read the guideBenefits
How to notify Social Security of a death, claim the $255 lump-sum death benefit, and qualify for monthly survivor benefits as a widow, child, or parent.
Read the guideFuneral Planning
A complete guide to funeral planning: cremation vs. burial costs, what to include on a funeral checklist, and how to write an obituary and eulogy.
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