The step-by-step guide to serving as an executor

If you need to wrap up the affairs of a loved one, you might feel overwhelmed--especially when you're grieving. But you can do it, and this book will show you how.

The Executor's Guide will lead you through the unfamiliar territory of legal procedures and terminology. You'll learn what to do right away and what can wait. Find help on:

• preparing for the job of executor
• claiming life insurance, Social Security, and other benefits
• making sense of a will (and what to do if there is no will)
• determining whether probate is necessary
• filing taxes
• navigating probate court proceedings
• dealing with family members, and
• working with lawyers, appraisers, accountants, and other experts.

The 10th edition contains updated tables outlining key points of each state's laws.

Applies in all states except Louisiana.