ArticleNational4 min read
How to Forward Mail After Death
Learn how to forward mail after death, check USPS authority and ID requirements, handle former-resident mail, and prepare a printable Post Office visit card.
Settled Estate EditorialRead more
Probate Guides & Estate Settlement Articles
Search state guides, practical articles, probate explainers, and estate planning resources by topic or state.
1563 In-Depth Guides
105 Blog Posts
Showing 1-10 of 1785 articles
ArticleNational4 min read
Estate Inventory: How to Find and Document Every Asset
An estate inventory lists everything a person owned at death with date-of-death values. How to find every account, value each asset, and file with the court.
Settled Estate EditorialRead more
ArticleNational4 min read
In Case of Death Binder: Where to Find Your Documents
Use an in case of death binder to record where documents are kept and whom to contact. Print a private location worksheet with a clearly labeled sample.
Settled Estate EditorialRead more
ArticleNational4 min read
Surviving Spouse Checklist: Household Bills and Income
Use a surviving spouse checklist to organize household bills, income and provider calls. Print a worksheet to record account questions and follow-up tasks.
Settled Estate EditorialRead more
ArticleNational4 min read
Unclaimed Money From a Deceased Relative: How to Search
Search official state programs for unclaimed money from a deceased relative. Use mail as a clue, verify any match, and check the claim rules for your role.
Settled Estate EditorialRead more
ArticleNational4 min read
What Happens to a Bank Account When Someone Dies?
Account ownership and beneficiary terms determine what happens after death. Joint-account survivorship, sole accounts and bank proof requirements can differ.
Settled Estate EditorialRead more
ArticleNational4 min read
What Happens to Social Security When Someone Dies?
Social Security payment rules depend on the benefit type and month. Learn who reports a death, how to ask about unpaid benefits, and how survivors apply.
Settled Estate EditorialRead more
ArticleNational4 min read
Who to Notify When Someone Dies
Track who has been told about a death, which documents each office or company wants, and what still needs follow-up. Includes a call script and printable log.
Settled Estate EditorialRead more
GuideDistrict of ColumbiaSupport Guide15 min read
District of Columbia Advance Directive
How a D.C. advance directive works: the health care power of attorney, the living will declaration, who may witness each, and the MOST form.
Settled EditorialRead more
GuideDistrict of ColumbiaSupport Guide16 min read
District of Columbia Ancillary Probate
A personal representative appointed outside D.C. needs no D.C. letters. See the filing, notice and 6-month rules for D.C. property (§ 20-341).
Settled EditorialRead more
Need Help With Probate?
Take our free assessment to understand your probate options and get personalized guidance for your situation.