You may have had a loved one reach out to you when they created their will or trust. They may have asked you to take on the role of executor of their estate. There may not have been many details discussed but your loved one was convinced you were the right person for the job.
Now, you have a ton of questions going through your head about being an executor. You shouldn’t leave these questions unanswered until the last minute. Here’s what you should know:
Being the executor of an estate is a big job
As executor, it is your duty to secure a family or friend’s estate until it is properly distributed. Your loved one may have made specific details entailing what you will be required to do. If you fail to act on your duties, then you could face serious consequences.
Executors do more than get the keys to the home of the recently deceased and present their will to the probate court. They may be asked to take on several additional jobs to fulfill their role:
- Gather multiple death certificates: As executor, you’ll have to contact several people of interest and present death certificates as proof of your loved one’s passing.
- Secure homes, cars and property: Your loved one may have owned multiple cars and homes that need to be located and secured.
- Store away valuables, heirlooms or jewelry: Your loved one may have had precious goods that need protecting until the estate’s distribution.
- Care for pets and plants: You may need to relocate or board pets and continue caring for the plants of your loved one.
Being the executor of an estate is a big role with many steps. Just one mistake could cause irreparable damage to the distribution of the estate you look after. You may need to know your options to ensure you do everything you can for your role as executor.