End-of-Life & Post-Death Legalities

Executor Duties: A Timeline for Settling an Estate

Family caregiver at a table organizing executor documents including a will, death certificates, power of attorney and a checklist next to a laptop and calendar

This article guides family caregivers through the executor’s duties and a practical timeline for settling an estate in the U.S. It links these responsibilities to related caregiver topics — powers of attorney, guardianship, advance directives, and long‑term care contracts —…

  • 31 mins

Social Security Survivor Benefits: How to Claim

Family caregiver and elderly relative reviewing paperwork including Social Security card death certificate and legal checklist at a kitchen table

When a loved one dies, family caregivers must act swiftly to claim Social Security survivor benefits while managing legal tasks like powers of attorney, guardianship, advance directives, and long-term care contracts. This article explains eligibility, required documents, step-by-step filing tips,…

  • 23 mins

Checklist: What to Do Immediately After a Parent Dies

Adult child reviewing legal documents and checklist at a table after a parent died, with memorial flowers and laptop

Losing a parent is emotionally overwhelming and legally complex. This checklist-style guide walks U.S.-based family caregivers through the immediate legal and practical tasks after a parent dies, explaining what documents matter, who to notify, and the legal steps that follow…

  • 31 mins