Help Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Straightforward answers to common questions about end-of-life planning, funeral costs, legal documents, and how our tools work.

About Our Site

What End of Life Tools is and how we work

Using Our Tools

How our calculators and planning resources work

End-of-Life Planning Basics

When and how to start planning for the end of life

Funeral Planning

Costs, options, and practical decisions

Legal & Financial

Debts, probate, and accessing accounts after a death

Privacy & Your Information

How we handle your data

Still have questions?

We're here to help. Get in touch and we'll do our best to point you in the right direction.

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Frequently Asked Questions

About Our Site

What is End of Life Tools?

Who is behind End of Life Tools?

Is the information on this site free?

How often is the content updated?

Is End of Life Tools a replacement for professional legal or medical advice?

Using Our Tools

How do the cost calculators work?

Are the cost estimates accurate?

Can I save my results?

What tools are available on the site?

Do I need to create an account to use the tools?

End-of-Life Planning Basics

When should I start planning for end of life?

What documents do I need for end-of-life planning?

What is the difference between a will and a trust?

What is an advance directive and why does it matter?

Can I plan my own funeral in advance?

Funeral Planning

How much does a funeral cost in the US?

What are my options for funeral or memorial services?

What is the difference between cremation and burial?

What are the rules around scattering ashes?

What financial assistance is available to help pay for a funeral?

Legal & Financial

What happens to debts after someone dies?

Do I need probate?

How do I access a deceased person's bank accounts?

What happens to a 401k or IRA when someone dies?

How much does probate cost?

What is the difference between an executor and a power of attorney?

Privacy & Your Information

Do you store the information I enter into the calculators?

Do you sell my data?

Still have questions?