What paperwork needs to be filed after someone dies?

After a death, families typically need to file 47+ forms including: IRS Form SS-4 (estate EIN), IRS Form 56 (executor notice), Social Security death notification, SSA-8 lump-sum benefit, SSA-10 survivor benefits, final 1040 tax return, life insurance claims, probate petition, and notifications to banks, credit bureaus, and government agencies.

How do I apply for a Social Security death benefit?

You can claim the $255 Social Security lump-sum death benefit (SSA-8) by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local Social Security office. You must claim within 2 years of the death. A surviving spouse or dependent child is eligible. LastingPath provides a step-by-step wizard for SSA-8.

Do I need probate if someone dies without a will?

It depends on the estate value and state. Many states allow small estates under $50,000–$100,000 to skip probate using a Small Estate Affidavit. Estates above the threshold typically require probate court even without a will. LastingPath helps you determine if you qualify for the small estate process.

What is an estate EIN and do I need one?

An estate EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a tax ID for the deceased's estate. You need one to open an estate bank account, file the estate tax return (Form 1041), and handle most financial transactions. You apply for it using IRS Form SS-4, which LastingPath can guide you through in minutes.

How long does estate administration take?

Simple estates with no real estate and under the small estate threshold can be settled in 1–3 months. Estates going through probate typically take 6–18 months. Most time-sensitive tasks (Social Security, IRS notifications, creditor notices) have deadlines within the first 60–90 days.

How do I get an EIN for an estate?

File IRS Form SS-4 to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for the deceased's estate. You can apply online at irs.gov, by fax, or by mail. The EIN is required to open an estate bank account, file estate tax returns, and manage financial transactions on behalf of the estate. LastingPath walks you through the SS-4 application step by step.

What is Form 56 and when do I need to file it?

Form 56 is the Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship filed with the IRS. It formally notifies the IRS that you (the executor, administrator, or personal representative) are acting on behalf of the deceased's estate. You should file Form 56 as soon as you are appointed by the court or named in the will. LastingPath's guided wizard helps you complete and file Form 56 correctly.

How do I claim Social Security survivor benefits?

File SSA-10 for monthly survivor benefits if you are a surviving spouse, dependent child, or other eligible dependent. You can apply by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local office. Survivor benefits can provide ongoing monthly income based on the deceased's earnings record. LastingPath guides you through the SSA-10 application process.

What is the deadline for filing estate tax returns?

Form 706 (United States Estate Tax Return) is due 9 months after the date of death. You can request an automatic 6-month extension using Form 4768. For 2026, estates exceeding $13.61 million in gross assets are required to file. The estate income tax return (Form 1041) is due on April 15 of the year following death. LastingPath tracks these deadlines and sends reminders.

How do I notify creditors of a death?

Send written notice to known creditors within the timeframe required by your state (typically 30–90 days after appointment). Most states also require publishing a notice in a local newspaper to notify unknown creditors. Creditors then have a limited window (usually 3–6 months) to file claims against the estate. LastingPath's Creditor Shield tool helps you manage creditor notifications and analyze claims.

Do I need probate if the estate is small?

Many states allow small estate affidavits for estates below a certain threshold, typically $25,000 to $200,000 depending on the state. A small estate affidavit lets you transfer assets without going through formal probate court proceedings, saving significant time and legal fees. LastingPath covers small estate affidavit guidance for all 50 states and helps you determine if you qualify.

How do I transfer a vehicle title after death?

Contact your state DMV with the death certificate, the vehicle title, and proof of your authority as executor or heir (Letters Testamentary or small estate affidavit). Requirements vary by state — some require an odometer reading, emissions test, or notarized affidavit. LastingPath's vehicle transfer wizard provides state-specific instructions and required documents.

What is a Letters Testamentary?

A Letters Testamentary is a court document that officially grants the executor authority to act on behalf of the estate. It is issued by the probate court after the will is validated. Banks, insurance companies, and government agencies require Letters Testamentary before they will release assets or information. If there is no will, the equivalent document is called Letters of Administration.

How long does estate administration typically take?

Simple estates take 6–12 months to fully settle, while complex estates with real property, business interests, or contested claims can take 1–3 years. Key milestones include obtaining the EIN (week 1), filing IRS and SSA notifications (month 1), completing probate (months 3–12), and making final distributions. LastingPath provides a personalized timeline and deadline tracker for your estate.

Can I handle estate administration without a lawyer?

Yes, for straightforward estates with clear beneficiaries, no disputes, and assets below the estate tax threshold, many executors handle administration themselves. LastingPath provides guided wizards for every form and task, AI-powered assistance for questions, and state-specific guidance. For complex situations involving business assets, tax planning, or family disputes, consulting an estate attorney is recommended.

SSA Benefits

VA Burial Benefits: What Veterans' Families Are Entitled To

5 min read · Updated February 5, 2026

What the VA Provides for Burial

Families of eligible veterans are entitled to a range of burial benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. These benefits are underused — many families are not aware of them or assume the process is too complicated. It is not. Here's what's available and how to get it.

Burial Allowance

The VA pays a burial allowance to help offset funeral and burial costs for eligible veterans. The amount depends on the circumstances:

Service-connected death: If the veteran died of a service-connected disability, the VA pays up to $2,000 toward burial and funeral costs, plus a $796 plot/interment allowance if burial is not in a national cemetery.

Non-service-connected death (VA-rated veteran): If the veteran was receiving VA pension or compensation at the time of death (or was entitled to receive it), the VA pays up to $796 for burial and funeral costs, plus a $796 plot/interment allowance.

Death in VA care: If the veteran died while in a VA hospital, nursing home, or other VA care, the VA pays burial and funeral costs up to $796 plus the plot allowance.

These amounts are adjusted periodically — check va.gov for current figures.

National Cemetery Burial (Free)

Eligible veterans and certain family members may be buried in a national cemetery at no cost. This is one of the most significant benefits many families don't know about. National cemetery burial includes:

Opening and closing of the grave
A government-furnished grave liner
Perpetual care of the gravesite
A government headstone or marker

More than 150 national cemeteries exist across the country, plus state veterans cemeteries that offer similar benefits. Search at va.gov/burials-memorials/veterans-burial-allowance to find available national cemeteries near you.

Government Headstone or Marker

Eligible veterans are entitled to a government-provided headstone, grave marker, or niche cover at no cost — even if the veteran is buried in a private cemetery, not a national cemetery. Order using VA Form 40-1330 (for most veterans) or 40-1330M (for niche markers). There is no charge for the marker; however, the private cemetery may charge an installation fee.

Presidential Memorial Certificate

Any eligible veteran's family can request a Presidential Memorial Certificate — an engraved paper certificate signed by the current President, expressing the nation's gratitude for the veteran's service. These are free and can be ordered at va.gov or at any VA regional office. They are commonly displayed at home or given to family members as keepsakes.

DD-214: The Essential Document

Most VA burial benefits require a copy of the veteran's DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). This is the key military service record. If you cannot find the DD-214, you can request it through the National Archives at archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records. The online eVetRecs system is the fastest way to request it.

How to Apply for Burial Allowance

File VA Form 21P-530EZ (Application for Burial Benefits) within two years of the date of burial. Submit it to your nearest VA regional office, or file online at va.gov. Attach the death certificate, proof of the veteran's military service (DD-214), and itemized funeral bills.

Do not wait to have all documents — you can begin the process and supplement later. Missing the two-year deadline means permanently losing the burial allowance.

Disclaimer: LastingPath is not a law firm and does not provide legal or tax advice. This guide provides general information only. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ — consult a licensed attorney or CPA for advice specific to your situation.