After a loss

What an executor actually does

A to-do list that can stretch over months, not days.

An executor is the person named in a will to settle the estate. If there's no will, a court appoints someone, usually called an administrator, to do the same job. It's a big responsibility, but most of it is paperwork and patience.

The usual stages

First weeks

Finding the will, getting certified death certificates, securing the home and belongings, and notifying close contacts

First months

Filing for probate if needed, getting letters testamentary, opening an estate bank account, getting a tax ID for the estate, and notifying banks, creditors and agencies

Middle months

Listing and valuing assets, paying valid debts and bills, managing property, and keeping careful records

Final stage

Filing final tax returns, distributing what's left to beneficiaries, and closing the estate

Duties executors usually have

• Acting in the best interest of the estate and beneficiaries, not themselves
• Keeping estate money separate from their own
• Keeping records of everything they receive and pay
• Not distributing anything until debts and taxes are handled

Getting help

Executors can usually pay for a lawyer or accountant from the estate's money. Many states also allow executors to be paid a fee, though many family members decline it.