Estate Planning · Estate Settlement
You lost someone. Here's what comes next.
The paperwork after a death can feel endless, right when you have the least energy for it. We'll help you take it one step at a time.
The first few weeks
Get death certificates.
Order 10 or more. Banks, insurers, and agencies each want an original.
Find the will or trust.
Check home files, a safe, and the lawyer or company that prepared it.
Notify Social Security.
The funeral home often does this. Ask to be sure.
Find life insurance and accounts.
Look for policies, bank and retirement statements, and beneficiary forms.
Don't pay debts right away.
Debts are paid from the estate, not from you. Wait until you know what the estate owns.
Trust or probate?
Which path you're on depends on what they left behind.
If there's a living trust
The successor trustee takes over
No court needed for trust assets
Follow the trust's written instructions
If there's only a will, or nothing
The estate likely goes through probate
The court names a personal representative
It's slower and public, but manageable
How we help
We walk you through the paperwork in order, so nothing gets missed. If there's life insurance, we'll help you file the claim. If the estate needs a lawyer, like a dispute or a court fight, we'll tell you.
And when things settle, it's a good time to look at your own plan, so your family has an easier road.
What probate really costsCommon questions
Am I responsible for my parent's debts?+
Usually no. Debts are paid from what the estate owns. If there isn't enough, most debts go unpaid. The rules can differ if you co-signed or live in a community property state.
How long does settling an estate take?+
With a funded trust, often a few months. With probate, a year or more is common.
Do beneficiaries get life insurance through probate?+
No. Life insurance goes straight to the named beneficiary. It's often the first money a family gets.
Keep learning
You don't have to do this alone.
Tell us where you are in the process. We'll help you see the next step.
Educational content only. Not financial, legal, or tax advice. All services are provided by licensed professionals. Coverage decisions depend on individual circumstances.