A little clarity, at your pace
Who can help with which questions?
You may need more than one kind of help. These questions are a starting point for checking scope, credentials, and fit, not an endorsement of a provider.
An estate attorney: legal questions
For court authority, estate settlement, ownership, and debt responsibility, consider speaking with an attorney licensed in the relevant state. State court resources can explain procedures; the CFPB recommends legal help to understand whether a surviving spouse is responsible for debts.
- Which state are you licensed in, and does my question fall within your work?
- What is the scope of the engagement, who will do it, and how are charges explained?
- Is there a court deadline that should be verified now?
Sources for this section
- CFPB: Responsibility for a spouse's debts(opens in a new tab)Last checked 2026-11-08
A CPA or tax professional: filing and tax questions
The IRS deceased-person resources separate final income tax, estate income tax, and other estate responsibilities. A tax professional can help review which apply to your situation. Verify credentials with the relevant licensing or credentialing authority rather than relying on a title on a website.
- Will you handle both final individual and estate returns if needed?
- Can you compare the tax consequences of the IRA options before I make a transfer?
- Which records should I provide through your secure process?
Sources for this section
- IRS: Deceased person and estate responsibilities(opens in a new tab)Last checked 2026-11-08
A financial professional: planning and investment questions
Use Investor.gov to check registration and background. Ask about the professional's actual capacity, compensation, conflicts, and any written disclosures. Registration is not an endorsement and does not guarantee results.
- What services do you provide, and what is outside your role?
- When would you act as a fiduciary, and will you put that in writing?
- How are you paid, including commissions or referral payments?
Sources for this section
- SEC Investor.gov: Check an investment professional(opens in a new tab)Last checked 2026-11-08
SBC Surviving Spouse Planning Education provides education
This site is not a law firm, tax preparer, registered investment adviser, or nonprofit. It does not make individualized recommendations. A qualified quiz result may offer an optional 15-minute call through the protected scheduling page.