You’ve Been Asked to Be an Executor - Are You Ready?
Posted by Amanda Wojtkowski on August 21, 2025
Being named the executor of someone’s estate is a meaningful honor, it reflects trust and respect. But it’s also a serious responsibility that requires time, organization, and a clear understanding of legal and financial processes. If a loved one asks you to take on this role, it’s important to understand what’s involved before you say yes.
Let’s walk through the key duties of an executor and what you should expect.
Step 1: The First Tasks After Death
Your role begins immediately after the person’s passing. One of your first responsibilities is to obtain certified copies of the death certificate—often a dozen or more. These are needed to notify banks, insurance companies, and government agencies.
Next, locate the will. If there’s one, read it carefully. An estate attorney can help interpret its terms and explain any state-specific laws. If a trust is involved, your responsibilities may expand.
Depending on local laws, you may need to file the will with probate court—even if probate isn’t required. Probate is the legal process of settling an estate and is more common with larger or more complex estates. If the deceased had minor children or dependent adults, you’ll also need to ensure they’re connected with their legal guardians.
Keeping a clear record of every action you take is essential. If a beneficiary disputes your decisions, documentation can help prove that you acted responsibly and in the estate’s best interest.
Step 2: Take Inventory of the Assets
Hopefully, the deceased left a list of assets. If not, you’ll need to do some detective work. Bank statements, checkbook registers, and insurance documents can help uncover hidden accounts or policies.
You’ll also need to:
- Notify Social Security or other government benefit agencies.
- Appraise valuable items like jewelry or collectibles.
- Maintain insurance on estate assets such as homes or vehicles.
Understanding the full scope of the estate is crucial before moving forward.
Step 3: Handle Taxes, Debts, and Distributions
Before any assets are distributed, the estate’s debts and taxes must be paid. These may include:
- Funeral expenses
- Mortgage and utility bills
- Credit card balances
- Outstanding tax obligations
You may need to file a final income tax return for the deceased and ensure previous filings are complete. Estates under $13.99 million (as of 2025) typically don’t owe federal estate taxes, but it’s wise to confirm with a tax professional.
To manage payments, you can open a bank account in the estate’s name. If you need time to sort things out, notify creditors early to avoid complications.
Keep beneficiaries informed throughout the process. Once debts and taxes are settled, you can begin distributing assets according to the will, though some states require court approval before this step.
Step 4: Closing the Estate
Your final duty is to officially close the estate. This usually happens after all assets are distributed and debts are paid. Some states require a court filing or written agreement from beneficiaries to finalize the process.
Be prepared: settling an estate can take a year or more, especially if it’s complex. As executor, you’re a fiduciary, meaning you’re legally obligated to act in the estate’s best interest. Missteps like mismanaging funds or failing to protect assets can lead to personal liability.
Final Thoughts
Serving as an executor is a meaningful way to honor someone’s legacy, but it’s not a role to accept lightly. If you’re unsure about your ability to manage the responsibilities, it’s okay to decline. And if you do accept, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance along the way.
Have questions about what it takes to be an executor? Reach out to our family wealth and estate planning experts for help.
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Amanda joined the Firm in January 2018 as a tax staff accountant after interning for the Firm in 2017. She is now a manager and specializes in tax compliance for individuals, trusts, and estates, and also provides tax services to privately held businesses and private foundations.