Learn & Prepare
When someone close to you passes away, it can be difficult to know what to do. Whether you are planning a funeral service, buying flowers, expressing condolences, or just trying to figure out how to process grief, this library of articles will help you understand what to expect.
Obituary Writing Toolbox: Template and Samples
Get started with our free writing tools for obituaries of any length
Following a template is the easiest way to determine the requirements and standards for any type of writing project. It's helpful to take a look at examples, templates and guides when beginning to write. Knowing the form, function and style will help you create...
See articleBenefits of Online Memorials
Modernizing obituaries for a more lasting way to honor those who have passed
When a loved one passes away, the next of kin will usually compose a newspaper obituary to communicate the information. While these notices are informative, obituaries often don’t do justice to the life story of a loved one. This can result in an impersonal...
See articleHelping Children Triumph Over Grief
How to support a child through the grief of losing a loved one, the healthy way
Children are amazingly perceptive. They sense when adults around them are stressed, sad or keeping a secret. While you may be inclined to shield children from grief, this can actually lead to confusion and anger.
Wherever possible, children should be...
See articleCaring for an Ailing Parent with Confidence
Tips for transitioning from child to caregiver
Reversing the roles of caregiver and dependent is complicated and emotional. Adult children can become caregivers of their parents in the blink of an eye, and it can lead to doubt and anxiety for all.
As unfortunate as it may be in the moment, taking over...
See articleHow to Express Your Condolences When Someone Dies
Show you care
Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult and devastating life events a person will experience. While there's nothing you can do to remedy the situation, you can certainly let your friends or loved ones know that you're there for them in their time of need....
See articleHow to Write an Obituary
Memorialize your loved one’s accomplishments and unique personality in 10 easy steps
Writing is intimidating for most people. Even those who write regularly get writer’s block, lose motivation and procrastinate. It can be even harder to write when announcing the death of a loved one.
When someone passes away, an obituary is usually...
See articlePassing Assets to Your Heirs Without Probate and With Personal Liability Protection
Estate planning tips to make the most of your financial legacy
When you have a limited liability company that owns assets, such as investment real estate, it provides you with personal liability protection but often doesn't have any estate planning benefits. A living trust enables you to pass assets to your heirs immediately,...
See articleSteps to Take When Filing a Will
Start planning your final wishes today
As with being born and having to pay taxes, we all face the prospect of our own death. If you plan on living to a ripe old age, it’s important to make things easier on those you leave behind by preparing a proper last will and testament.
Benefits of... See article
What Are the Duties of an Estate Executor?
From taxes to childcare arrangements to court appearances, estate executors are responsible for representing the deceased's best interests.
Estate executors are trusted individuals who handle the settlement of a deceased person's estate. The duties they perform ensure that property and other elements of the estate are distributed according to both the provisions of any existing will and current...
See articleWriting a Sympathy Note
The do's and don'ts of expressing condolences
Writing a sympathy note is a thoughtful way to express your condolences when someone you know has suffered a recent loss. However, it is essential to strike the right tone and offer your sympathy with sensitivity.
Use this list of do’s and don’ts to...
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