Start with the responsible source

Organize healthcare wishes, decision-makers, hospice questions, funeral preferences, property, accounts, documents, and state-specific legal requirements. The resources below are starting points for verification, applications, complaints, provider searches, and local referrals.

Where to begin

  • Use National Institute on Aging advance-care-planning information.
  • Use Medicare hospice information and Care Compare.
  • Use LawHelp.org or the state bar for legal-aid and attorney resources.
  • Use state government or health department forms rather than an unknown template.

Official and established resources

Prepare before calling or applying

  • Write the exact question and desired outcome.
  • Have the relevant card, notice, bill, account number, dates, and ZIP code available—but do not send sensitive information to an unverified contact.
  • Ask whether the office serves the correct county, plan, provider type, or legal issue.
  • Ask what documents are required and whether an appointment is necessary.
  • Record the representative’s name, date, confirmation number, and next step.
  • Request an accessible format, interpreter, relay service, or reasonable accommodation when needed.

Verify the organization

Use the official web address or a phone number printed on an official notice. Commercial advertisements and lead-generation forms can appear above government results in search engines. Confirm the domain before entering personal information.

More pages

Within this subject: Updates and Official Changes, Decision Checklist, Common Mistakes and Warning Signs, State-by-State Differences.

Related subjects: Long-Term Care, Home Care, Hospice, and Facility Quality, Memory Loss, Dementia, Cognitive Health, and Safety, Abuse, Neglect, Guardianship, and Exploitation.

Last reviewed

Resource links and descriptions were reviewed on 2026-07-30. Program capacity, hours, and local availability still require direct confirmation.