Blog
In-depth articles to help you understand the financial, legal, and practical realities of dealing with death in America. Every article is free, thoroughly researched, and written to save you time and money.
The True Cost of Dying in America (2026)
A comprehensive breakdown of every expense families face, from funeral costs and burial fees to probate and estate administration. Learn how to reduce costs at every step.
Social Security Survivors Benefits: The Complete Guide
Who qualifies, how much you receive, how to apply, and common mistakes to avoid. Everything you need to know about Social Security survivors benefits in one place.
What Debts Are Forgiven at Death? A Complete Guide
Student loans, credit cards, mortgages, medical bills, and tax debt. Learn which debts die with the person, which survive, and what family members are actually responsible for.
Veterans Burial Benefits: Everything You Need to Know
National cemetery eligibility, burial allowances, military honors, headstones, and the Presidential Memorial Certificate. A complete guide for families of veterans.
COBRA After Death of a Spouse: What You Need to Know
How COBRA works after a spouse dies, the 36-month coverage period, costs, election deadlines, and alternatives including marketplace plans and Medicare.
How to Write a Will in America: Requirements, Costs and Options (2026)
Everything you need to know about writing a will in the US. State requirements, DIY vs attorney, online services, costs, and common mistakes to avoid.
Power of Attorney vs Advance Directive: What You Need (2026)
Types of power of attorney, advance directives, living wills, and healthcare proxies. How to set them up, state variations, and why you should not wait.
Average Funeral Cost by State (2026): Complete Breakdown
How much funerals cost across America in 2026. State-by-state data, burial vs cremation, the FTC Funeral Rule, and practical ways to reduce costs.
Your Digital Legacy: How to Plan What Happens to Your Online Accounts When You Die
Plan your digital legacy: social media, email, banking, subscriptions, crypto, and photos. What happens to your accounts when you die and how to prepare.
Estate Tax vs Inheritance Tax: Which States Tax You? (2026)
Federal estate tax, the $13.99M exemption, 12 states with estate tax, 6 states with inheritance tax. Actual exemption amounts and how to reduce your liability.
Where to Scatter Ashes in the US: Laws, Locations and What You Need to Know
Federal and state laws on scattering ashes. National parks, oceans, private land, aerial scattering, and practical tips for a meaningful send-off.
Green Burial Options in America: A Complete Guide (2026)
Natural burial grounds, human composting, alkaline hydrolysis, conservation cemeteries. Costs, legality by state, and how to find providers.
Inherited IRA and 401(k) Rules: The Complete Guide (2026)
SECURE Act changes, the 10-year rule, spousal vs non-spousal beneficiaries, RMDs, tax implications, and strategies to minimize your tax bill.
Prepaid Funeral Plans: Are They Worth It? Costs, Risks and Alternatives (2026)
How preneed plans work, FTC regulations, trust-based vs insurance-funded, Medicaid implications, and better alternatives like POD accounts.
How to Talk About Death: Starting End-of-Life Conversations With Your Family
Practical advice on how to start conversations about death, dying, wills, and funeral wishes with your family. Why it matters and how to make it easier.
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