Last Writes: A Blog About Death and Grief

Cremation isn’t one-size-fits-all. This guide breaks down the different types of cremation—on-site, off-site, witness cremation, and water cremation—so families understand what their options...

Shipping a body isn’t something families are prepared for—yet it happens more often than you think. This guide breaks down how human remains are transported by plane, the legal requirements, who...

Traveling with cremated remains can feel overwhelming, especially at the airport. This guide explains TSA rules, approved containers, carry-on tips, and what to expect—so you can focus on honoring...

Burial at sea isn’t just a myth or a Viking fantasy—it’s a real, legal option in the U.S. This guide explains how sea burials work today, the EPA rules involved, state-by-state challenges, typical...

When someone dies, their Social Security number is retired—but the estate still needs a tax ID to function. This guide explains what an estate EIN is, when it’s required, how to apply, and how...

“Passed away” may sound gentler, but it can distance us from the reality of death. This piece explores why language matters, how euphemisms shape fear and avoidance, and why saying “died” can be...

For LGBTQ+ families, dying without a will can mean the wrong people inherit and the right ones are left out. This guide explains how intestacy laws work, why chosen family isn’t protected, and how...

Death certificates and letters testamentary serve very different roles after someone dies. This guide explains what each document does, when you need them, and why both are essential for managing...

Death certificates are the key document that unlocks everything after someone dies—from probate and bank accounts to insurance claims and title transfers. This guide explains what they are, how to...

Executors often miss valuable tax deductions after death. This checklist explains which expenses are deductible, where to claim them, and how Forms 1040 and 706 differ—so you don’t leave money on...

One of the first and biggest executor duties is asset collection. This step-by-step guide walks through documents, financial accounts, property, taxes, and personal items—so nothing gets missed...

Executor and administrator roles sound similar, but they’re not the same. This guide explains who appoints each role, how probate works with or without a will, and what responsibilities come with...

End Well Conference 2025 wasn’t just a gathering—it was a signal. From medical aid in dying to probate reform, policy is emerging as the next major force reshaping death care, grief support, and...

Digital clutter is the new “stuff.” This guide breaks down how to clean up your email, passwords, subscriptions, and photos using a Swedish Death Cleaning mindset—so your digital life stays...

After someone dies, grief isn’t just emotional—it’s physical. Closets, garages, and storage units overflow with memories and decisions. This guide unpacks the real cost of dealing with “stuff,”...

We spent the weekend at the Future of DeathCare Summit in Chicago—where funeral directors, cemetery operators, and tech innovators gathered to reimagine what deathcare can be. From fragmented...

Dying without a will means your state gets to decide who inherits your stuff — not you. This guide breaks down how intestacy laws work, who inherits first, what property is affected, and why...

Body donation is a powerful way to leave a legacy — advancing science, medicine, and even forensic research. This guide explains the history, donation process, eligibility, costs, and available...

The funeral isn’t the finish line. This practical checklist covers nine post-death admin tasks— from ordering enough death certificates to handling taxes, DMV transfers, insurance, credit bureaus,...