How to Name an Executor to Settle Your Estate

The executor of your will is there to make sure that everything runs smoothly after your death. That person is responsible for collecting and inventorying your estate assets, paying off your remaining debts, your taxes, and any administration expenses associated with your estate, then distributing the remaining assets to your beneficiaries as named in your will. That person has to be someone that you trust and someone who is willing to discharge these difficult duties. The process for naming the executor, however, is quite simple.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Attorney
• Will

Naming an Executor

1. Talk to the person who is to be named executor in order to make sure they understand the responsibilities and duties of their position. Ask for their permission to be named executor before you formally name them in the document.

2. Name your executor in your will. At the time you create your will, you will be required to name the executor of your estate. Simply fill the name in correctly in your documents and provide any necessary contact information.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that your executor has a copy of the latest version of your will or access to one.
• Talk to your executor and let them read over your will to help you find any problems or possible points of contention and smooth them over in advance.
• Your executor may be under a great deal of stress when it comes time to settle your estate, so choose someone who works well under pressure.