How to Become the Executor of an Estate

An executor is the person or persons named in someone's will who ensures that the instructions in the will and the wishes of the deceased are carried out. There are a few things you may need to do to secure your position as the executor.

Instructions

1. Be the person named as executor in the will. The easiest way to become executor is to already be named as such. If you are not named but no one else is named, or wants the job, you must petition for the role in Probate Court.

2. File a "Petition for Letters Testamentary," a "Petition for Letters of Administration with Will Annexed" and a "Petition for Letters of Administration" along with the original will at the Probate Court Clerk's Office in order to secure a hearing date.

3. Notify all involved next of kin of your actions and the hearing date.

4. Attend the hearing and provide proof to the court that the will provided is authentic and the only will created by the deceased.

5. Receive the Court's ruling, granting you the role of executor.

Tips & Warnings

• Prepare to spend a great deal of time on the tasks of an executor, even if the estate is a simple one. Be prepared also to put up "front money" to cover certain immediate expenses if cash from the estate is not yet available. Keep track of such expenses in order to be reimbursed from the estate.

• A complicated estate, or a potential dispute, may require a professional appointment.