Resources & Articles

The AfterKin Blog

Practical, compassionate guidance on the steps no one prepares you for.

After a Death Mar 26, 2026 10 min read

What to Do When a Parent Dies: A Step-by-Step Guide

From the first phone call to settling the estate — a calm, clear guide to every step, with a complete checklist so nothing gets missed.

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Real Estate Apr 3, 2026 10 min read

What Happens to a Mortgage When Someone Dies?

The mortgage doesn't disappear. Heirs can assume it, refinance, sell the home, or walk away — and federal law protects them from a forced payoff.

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Work & Benefits Apr 3, 2026 8 min read

Bereavement Leave by State: How Much Time Off Are You Entitled To?

No federal law requires paid bereavement leave. Here's what your state mandates, what to ask HR, and what to do if your employer denies time off.

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After a Death Apr 1, 2026 9 min read

Digital Assets After Death: Social Media, Email & Crypto

What happens to social media accounts, email, cryptocurrency, and digital files when someone dies — and how to access or close each platform.

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After a Death Apr 1, 2026 10 min read

How to Close Accounts After Someone Dies: Banks, Cards & Subscriptions

A practical guide to closing bank accounts, credit cards, and subscriptions after a death — with bereavement contact numbers for major banks.

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Benefits Apr 1, 2026 8 min read

Social Security After Death: Survivor Benefits Explained

Who qualifies for Social Security survivor benefits, how much spouses and children receive, and how to apply — including the $255 lump-sum death benefit.

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After a Death Apr 1, 2026 9 min read

How to File a Life Insurance Claim: Step-by-Step Guide

How to find a life insurance policy, who can file a claim, what documents you need, and what to do if the insurer delays or denies payment.

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Legal Mar 30, 2026 9 min read

Small Estate Affidavit: How to Skip Probate If the Estate Qualifies

A practical guide to small estate affidavits, including what counts toward the threshold, what does not, and when probate is still required.

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After a Death Mar 30, 2026 9 min read

What to Do When a Spouse Dies: First Steps, Benefits & Estate Tasks

A calm guide to the first days after a spouse dies, including funeral planning, survivor benefits, household accounts, and estate tasks.

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Funeral Planning Mar 30, 2026 8 min read

Average Funeral Cost in 2026: Burial, Cremation & Service Prices

A realistic funeral cost breakdown for 2026, including burial, cremation, cemetery, obituary, and service expenses.

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Funeral Planning Mar 30, 2026 8 min read

Cremation vs. Burial: Cost, Pros, Cons & How to Decide

A practical side-by-side guide to cremation and burial, including cost differences, family considerations, and how to choose.

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Funeral Planning Mar 26, 2026 6 min read

How to Write an Obituary: What to Include + Examples

A simple obituary framework, examples, and wording help for families who need to write something clear, respectful, and fast.

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Grief & Wellbeing Mar 26, 2026 6 min read

Grief Support Resources: How to Cope With Loss (Free Guide)

Free grief support resources — counseling, support groups, apps, and hotlines. Learn what grief looks like and how to help yourself or someone you love.

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Estate Settlement Mar 26, 2026 10 min read

How to Settle an Estate: A Complete Executor's Guide + Checklist

From filing the will to distributing assets — a step-by-step guide for executors, with a printable estate settlement checklist to track your progress.

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Legal Mar 26, 2026 9 min read

What Is Probate? How the Probate Process Works Step by Step

Probate is the legal process for validating a will and distributing assets. Learn how it works, how long it takes, what it costs, and how to avoid it.

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Legal Mar 27, 2026 8 min read

How Long Does Probate Take? A Realistic Timeline

Most estates take 9 to 18 months. Some close in 3. Here's what actually drives the timeline — and what you can do to keep things moving.

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Paperwork & Records Mar 26, 2026 7 min read

How to Get a Death Certificate — and How Many You Need

You'll need more copies than you think. Here's how to order them, who can request them, what they cost by state, and how long they take.

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Funeral Planning Mar 26, 2026 8 min read

How to Plan a Funeral: Complete Checklist & Cost Guide

From choosing a funeral home to writing a eulogy — everything you need to plan a meaningful service without overspending.

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Ready for the complete step-by-step guide?

Everything from the first 24 hours to settling the estate — with interactive checklists and provider recommendations.

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