Should I Be an Executor? What the Role Involves

Being named as an executor is both an honor and a significant responsibility. When someone trusts you enough to handle their final affairs, it reflects the confidence they have in your judgment and reliability. But before you accept this important role, you need to understand exactly what you're signing up for.

An executor's job goes far beyond simply reading a will and distributing assets. You'll be managing complex legal, financial, and administrative tasks that can take a year or more to complete. The decisions you make will directly impact the deceased's beneficiaries, and you'll be legally responsible for handling everything properly.

Let's break down what being an executor actually involves, so you can make an informed decision about whether to accept this responsibility.

Your First Steps as an Executor

Your initial tasks set the foundation for everything that follows. Start by obtaining certified copies of the death certificate—you'll typically need a dozen or more. Financial institutions, insurance companies, and government agencies will all require these documents.

Next, locate and carefully read the will. If you're unfamiliar with legal terminology or estate planning concepts, consider consulting with an estate planning attorney. They can explain the will's terms and help you understand the applicable laws in your state.

Depending on your local laws, you may need to file the will with probate court, even if formal probate proceedings aren't required. If the deceased had minor children or dependent adults, you'll need to ensure they're connected with their designated guardians.

Keep detailed records of every action you take. This documentation protects you if beneficiaries later question your decisions or challenge the estate's administration.

Taking Inventory of All Assets

Your next major task involves creating a comprehensive list of the deceased's assets. If they didn't leave an organized record, you'll need to do some detective work. Review bank statements, checkbook registers, and financial documents to identify accounts, investments, and regular payments that might reveal additional assets.

Contact all financial institutions where the deceased held accounts. You'll also need to determine the value of various assets, which might require professional appraisals for items like jewelry, art, or collectibles.

Don't forget about ongoing obligations. Maintain insurance coverage on vehicles and real estate while they remain in the estate. If the deceased received government benefits like Social Security, notify the appropriate agencies immediately to avoid overpayments that you'll later need to return.

Handling Taxes, Debts, and Distribution

Before beneficiaries receive their inheritance, you must settle the deceased's financial obligations. This includes filing final income tax returns, paying outstanding debts, and covering funeral expenses.

Open a bank account in the estate's name to manage these payments. If you need time to sort through assets and determine what money is available, communicate with creditors promptly to explain the situation.

File the deceased's final income tax return and verify that all previous tax obligations are current. Estates valued at $13.99 million or less in 2025 generally don't require federal estate tax returns, though state requirements may differ.

Once debts and taxes are settled, you can begin distributing assets according to the will's terms. However, some states require court approval before you take this step, so check your local requirements.

Closing the Estate

Your final responsibility involves formally closing the estate. This happens after all debts are paid and assets distributed. Depending on your state, you might need court approval or written agreement from all beneficiaries before you can officially complete your duties and end your role as executor.

The Bottom Line: Is This Right for You?

Serving as an executor requires significant time, attention to detail, and emotional resilience. The process typically takes at least a year, and complex estates can take much longer. You'll be legally responsible as a fiduciary, which means you can be held liable for mistakes or mismanagement.

Consider your current commitments, your relationship with the beneficiaries, and your comfort level with financial and legal matters. If the estate is particularly complex or family relationships are strained, the role becomes even more challenging.

Remember, accepting the position isn't mandatory. If you don't feel equipped to handle these responsibilities, it's better to decline respectfully than to take on duties you can't properly fulfill.

The decision to serve as an executor shouldn't be taken lightly, but for many people, helping a loved one's final wishes come to fruition provides meaningful closure. If you're considering this role or have already been named as an executor, professional guidance can help you navigate the process successfully and protect both the estate and your own interests.