The Journal

Navigating the complexities of probate, estate planning, and inheritance.

An adult and a young girl sitting on brick house steps and talking face to face

September 16, 20264 min readFamily

How to Tell a Child Someone Has Died

What to say when someone dies, how to answer a child's questions, and how to help them understand what happens next.

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Grief & Loss5 min read

5 Ways We Can Show Up for Our Friends Who Are Grieving

What to say, how to offer practical help, and why staying in touch matters. Five ways to support a grieving friend while respecting what they need.

September 13, 2026

A worn green expanding file holding envelopes and receipts on a wooden shelf in morning light

Money4 min read

Inheriting an HSA: What Happens After the Owner Dies?

A spouse can keep an inherited HSA. Other beneficiaries face an income tax bill, with a possible reduction for the owner's medical expenses. Here's what to check.

September 13, 2026

A woman using the Legacywyse Inventory page on her phone at a wooden dining table.

Family4 min read

How Family Review Can Reduce Inheritance Disagreements

See how Family Review in Legacywyse's estate settlement and probate app helps families score belongings, compare wishes, and divide inherited items.

September 11, 2026

An older man telling a story to a younger woman in a living room, with a phone on the table between them

Living Well4 min read

How to Record Family Stories in Their Own Words

Record a family conversation with a phone and a few thoughtful questions. Learn how to ask permission, listen well, and save the recording for others.

September 8, 2026

An open metal safe-deposit box holding aged savings bonds in warm window light

Money5 min read

Savings Bonds After Death: Who Can Cash Them?

The names on a U.S. savings bond determine who can claim it after a death. Learn which paperwork applies and how to handle the tax on interest.

September 8, 2026

A woman reviewing two Texas health insurance cards with different member names beside a tan handbag

Family5 min read

Health Insurance After a Spouse Dies

Find out when your health coverage ends, whether you can keep the same plan, and how to arrange new insurance for yourself and your children.

September 7, 2026

A woman standing on the porch of a quiet bungalow while speaking by phone and holding a folder

Money7 min read

Federal Student Loans After Death: A Family Checklist

Federal student loans can be discharged after a borrower dies, and Parent PLUS loans may qualify when the student dies. Follow the servicer, documentation, refund, and tax steps.

August 25, 2026

An older sage-green pickup truck parked in a quiet garage with keys on a wooden shelf

Executor Duties6 min read

Texas Vehicle Title Transfer After Death: A Practical Guide

Transferring a car after someone dies in Texas starts with the title record. Learn how to choose the right transfer path and prepare the county tax office packet.

August 18, 2026

A folded American flag, sealed envelope, and brass keepsake box beside an empty chair

Family7 min read

VA Survivor Benefits After a Veteran Dies

A veteran's death may leave a spouse, child, or parent eligible for VA survivor benefits. Learn which forms to file, the deadlines to track, and the records to keep.

August 11, 2026

A surviving spouse calling Social Security while reviewing blank papers at a quiet kitchen table

Money5 min read

Social Security After a Death: Payments and Survivor Benefits

After someone dies, a Social Security deposit may need to be returned. The family may also qualify for monthly survivor benefits or the $255 death payment.

August 4, 2026