An executor has a big responsibility—the kind that comes with managing someone else’s money. That’s because the executor is in charge of a deceased person’s assets, and must gather and safeguard them. The executor must also see that debts and taxes are paid, and then transfer the remaining assets to the people or organizations who inherit them.
If you’re an executor (also called a personal representative in many states), you must be honest, conscientious, and fair to creditors and beneficiaries. You don’t have to be a financial genius, and you don’t need a law degree. Just realize that the job will involve a lot of responsibility and a lot of detail—and require a lot of patience.
The executor of an estate has an important job—protecting a deceased person's property, winding up their financial affairs, and distributing inheritances.
Should You Accept the Job of Executor to Settle an Estate?
Are you qualified to be an executor and do you want to do the job?
If There’s No Will, Who’s the Executor?
Judges turn to state law when they must choose someone to wrap up an estate.
If you're the executor of an estate, here's what you'll need to do.
If you're the executor of an estate, here's what you need to do.
How the Probate Process Works: Information for Executors
Probate is the court-supervised process of gathering a deceased person's assets and distributing them to creditors and inheritors.
When a loved one dies, the executor needs to take charge of the deceased person’s will.
How an Estate Is Settled If There's No Will: Intestate Succession
State laws control who inherits property if no will exists. Learn the general guidelines.
If you're the executor reading the will, here's what to expect.
Common Terms in Wills and Trusts
If you’re trying to make sense of a will or trust, don’t feel bad if you don’t know what a lot of the words mean.
Will You Need to Hire a Probate Lawyer?
Not every executor needs professional help.
How to Find the Right Probate Lawyer
Look for more than just legal expertise.
If you're the executor of an estate, here are some tips for a successful working relationship with a probate lawyer.
Probate Lawyers' Fees and Billing
How the estate will pay the probate lawyer.