Estate planning &
settlement resources

Learn how to track every claim submitted after a loved one’s death, what information to record, how to follow up effectively, and why strong claim tracking can prevent delays, missed benefits, and unnecessary stress during estate administration.

Learn how executor authority is confirmed after a loved one’s death, how to obtain and use Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration, and why managing certified copies is critical to moving an estate forward.

Learn what happens when someone dies without a will, how intestacy works, what documents you’ll need, how courts appoint an administrator, and how to manage the estate responsibly under state law.

Learn how to start probate after a loved one’s death, what documents you’ll need, how court approval works, and how Elayne can help you stay organized and supported throughout the process.

Learn how to locate and review a loved one’s will or trust, what to look for first, how to avoid common executor mistakes, and how Elayne can help organize and clarify next steps before you meet with an attorney.

Learn how to update auto and home insurance policies after a loved one’s death, what documents you’ll need, how coverage should change, and how to avoid dangerous gaps that could leave estate assets uninsured.

Learn what state-level benefits may be available after a loved one’s death, how to find programs in your state, what documents you’ll need, and how to apply without missing deadlines or eligibility requirements.

Learn how to identify union or professional association benefits tied to a loved one’s work history, what documents you’ll need, and how to claim survivor benefits that may otherwise go uncollected.

Learn how to notify health insurance providers after a loved one’s death, what documents you’ll need, how coverage typically ends, and how to protect surviving family members from gaps in coverage or billing issues.

Learn why canceling a deceased person’s driver’s license or state ID matters, how to notify the DMV, what documents you’ll need, and how this step helps prevent identity theft during estate administration.

Learn how to request and review a deceased person’s credit reports, what documents you need, and why checking all three bureaus is essential for estate administration.

Learn how to freeze specialty consumer reports after a loved one’s death to prevent fraud, including which agencies to contact and what documents you’ll need.

After someone dies, closing membership and rewards accounts is important. Here’s how to deactivate your a Starbucks account (updated in December 2025).

Learn how to tell your boss you're grieving in December 2025. Get tips on requesting bereavement leave, handling grief at work, and advocating for yourself.

Learn the estate settlement process, timeline, and costs in December 2025. Executor duties, probate vs non-probate assets, and more for families.

Learn what to do after mom dies with this complete checklist. Get death certificates, notify Social Security, secure property, and settle the estate. Updated in December 2025.

Learn how to close a bank account after someone dies (updated in December 2025). Get step-by-step instructions for major banks plus required documents.

Here’s everything you need to know about memorializing or deleting a Facebook account after someone dies (updated in December 2025).

Learn the critical steps of how to cancel digital subscriptions after someone dies, even without passwords, to manage their estate effectively.

Here’s everything you need to know about canceling power company accounts and other common utilities after someone dies (December 2025).

Learn how to order certified death certificates, how many to request, what information you’ll need, and the fastest ways to get copies for estate and legal tasks.

Learn how to notify a landlord or property manager after a tenant’s death, what documents you’ll need, and how to handle lease termination, move-out, and security deposits.

Learn how to arrange immediate and long-term pet care after a loved one’s death, including what documents you need, how to transfer records, and how to follow the will or trust.

Learn when an estate needs an EIN, what documents are required, and how to apply with the IRS. A clear guide for executors handling estate taxes and accounts.