5 guides
Someone just died
The first week: certificates, notifications, funeral logistics, and protecting property.
U.S. estate administration, by situation
Inheritance & Estate Admin Desk
Start with the situation you are in now. These are the tasks families commonly have to handle in order, with state-specific checkpoints where probate law changes the answer.
You do not need to settle everything this week. The next documented step is enough.
5 guides
Figuring out if probate is needed
Wills, no-will estates, small-estate paths, non-probate assets, and opening a court case.
9 guides
Handling their accounts and assets
Bank, POD/TOD, investments, retirement, life insurance, digital property, and household belongings.
6 guides
Selling their house or car
Inherited homes, mortgages, title transfer, appraisal, sale, escrow, and tax basis.
3 guides
Dealing with debts and creditors
Estate debts, claims, collector calls, and what relatives usually do and do not owe.
9 guides
You're the executor or administrator
Letters, EIN, estate banking, inventory, accounting, distributions, disputes, and compensation.
5 guides
Taxes and closing the estate
Final Form 1040, Form 1041, estate tax, final accounting, timing, and closing the file.