Resources from the Empathy Care Team

An expertly curated selection of in-depth guidance and information about issues that your family may be facing. Understand probate, taxes, selling property, and more. Plus, get profound, compassionate advice on grief, emotional health, and interpersonal dynamics.

Browse the Empathy Knowledge Base

Applying for BenefitsBills & DebtGrief & GrievingIdentity Theft PreventionImmediate ArrangementsInforming OthersManaging AccountsPersonal BelongingsProbateProperty & AssetsSearching for DocumentsTaxesThe FuneralThe HouseThe Will

Featured articles

the funeral
Choosing the right funeral home
The Will
What happens when there is no will?
The House
Visiting your loved one’s house after they pass away
Probate
First steps for an executor
Personal Belongings
It’s the little things: Dealing with keepsakes

Recent articles

employer resources
How bereavement policies are leaving many families out
Employers that do not offer support to same-sex parents, stepfamilies, chosen families, and more in their bereavement policies are swimming against the demographic tide. Lifting all families is crucial to building a competitive, resilient organization. ->
employer resources
For employees, the bereavement-to-burnout pipeline is real
When an employee returns to the office after the death of a loved one, there are emotional, physical, and cognitive aspects to what they’re experiencing, not to mention significant new financial, legal, and family responsibilities. ->
the funeral
Red flags to look out for when planning a funeral
While there is immense relief in finding funeral professionals to help you with the often bewildering challenges that follow the loss of a loved one, not all businesses deserve that trust.  ->
grief & grieving
How to recognize when the time is approaching
We have a tendency in our culture to avoid talking directly about death. But failing to face what will happen can prevent you from making your loved one’s final days as comfortable as possible. Knowing the signs of end of life is very important for this. ->
grief & grieving
The racial grief gap
Studies shows that, collectively, there are stark racial differences in the US when it comes to the experience of grief, loss, and bereavement. ->
the funeral
Choosing the right funeral home
Choosing the right funeral home to hold the most fitting service for your loved one can feel challenging, but it's really a series of simple choices. It's best to start with a budget and go from there. ->
grief & grieving
How grief can affect your body
The pain of a loved one’s death can go beyond the emotional anguish of missing them. The toll that grief can take on your body is real—so it is important to pay attention to any health issues you may notice.  ->
grief & grieving
When a loved one dies by suicide
When you are grieving this kind of loss, it is important to take extra care of yourself. The intense trauma of this experience can affect survivors in numerous and even surprising ways. ->
grief & grieving
Dealing with grief on important dates
Certain dates will likely trigger feelings of grief, isolation, sadness, and discomfort for you. Letting go of expectations, creating new traditions, and acknowledging your feelings can help you navigate these important days. ->

Key Terms

Administrator

The person appointed by the court to handle the estate of someone who dies without a will. The duties of an administrator are similar to those of an executor, but as there is no will to execute, he or she is named administrator and distributes assets according to a procedure dictated by state law. See also next of kin.

The Funeral

A funeral or memorial ceremony is an opportunity for you and your family and the community of those who knew your loved one to grieve, and to honor and celebrate their life. The type of service you choose and all of its details will depend upon several factors; we’re here to guide you through each one.

The Will

Whether or not your loved one left a will, you will need to make sure their property is passed on to the right people. With a will, inheritance will follow your loved one’s wishes; without it, state law will decide. Either way, following these rules will ensure that your loved one’s life and legacy are properly honored.

Searching for Documents

The document search can be a daunting task, but it’s important for finding your loved one’s assets, debts, accounts, and more. We’ll help you organize the search and understand which papers to scan, save for later, or dispose of safely.