Being the executor of an estate comes with a lot of responsibility. As such, it can be very daunting for those who are unprepared for the task. Some simple steps while the testator is living can make the job much easier. We’ve listed these steps below.
Key Takeaways
- There are a lot of responsibilities that come with being the executor of an estate.
- One common trouble many executors overlook is dispersing personal possessions with great sentimental value but little financial value.
- If the testator keeps electronic track of the estate annually, the executor will have a good snapshot of assets when it’s needed.
- Joint accounts, regular updates, and having sealed online documents are ways to make the process easier for executors.
- An executor should have a record of the testator’s online presence to deactivate accounts.
1. Know the Location of the Will and Other Documents
This is an obvious and vital first step. The executor’s job is easier if the testator keeps the original will, deeds, insurance policies, partnership documents, or other important papers in an agreed-upon location (in the home or a safe deposit box) and keeps copies at a backup location. The copies can be held directly by the executor or by the testator’s lawyer.
Remember that access to a safe deposit box could be restricted once the testator dies. It is helpful if more than one person, such as a spouse, has access to the box.
2. Make Property and Accounts Joint
If the testator has a spouse, they would likely prefer that assets flow immediately through to the widow or widower if possible. The simplest way to ensure this is to set all accounts as joint and make sure that properties and titles are in both names, which also works for business enterprises involving a partner. This has the added benefit of reducing the size of the estate as long as both parties do not die simultaneously.
The executor should also have the testator confirm that the correct beneficiary is named for accounts that demand a specification, such as pensions, retirement accounts, insurance policies, and so on. If the testator is divorced, remarries, outlives a child, or experiences some similarly significant event, the list of beneficiaries will likely need updating.
3. Record the Testator’s Preferences
You may not realize it, but there are certain things that you should know or ensure are noted down before the death of a testator. For instance, do they want a large wake or a small cremation ceremony? Are there charities they want to support after all the beneficiaries die? It’s important for these preferences to be made in writing and signed by the testator.
4. List Possessions and Assign Recipients
There is one common trouble many executors overlook—dispersing personal possessions that have little financial value but great sentimental value. Working with the testator, an executor can create a rough draft of a list for dispersal of personal items, as well as a system of distribution. The testator should also write their reasoning for who got what gift. Sharing the list with those involved may eliminate problems.
The main benefit of working from this list is that the executor can track gifts given before the death of the testator as many people begin dispersing personal items as they age. High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) also frequently give financial gifts before death. Organized dispersal can make an executor’s job easier and help balance issues of fairness.
The executor should have the testator confirm that the correct beneficiary is named for such accounts as pensions, retirement accounts, and insurance policies.
5. Set Up a Yearly Accounting Sheet and Updating Schedule
Computers make it much easier to track changes in accounts and possessions. If the testator keeps track of the estate electronically, the executor will have a good snapshot of assets when it’s needed. This e-document will also cut the time spent looking for that gold watch the testator gave to a grandchild or tracking funds that were supposedly in a now-empty investment account.
6. Have a Sealed Online Accounts Document
In the digital age, an executor should also have a record of the testator’s online presence, such as Facebook, Paypal, eBay, and others, to deactivate accounts. The same ends can be met through presenting a death certificate to many of the above or similar sites, but the document simplifies work for the executor.
7. Know the Relevant Professionals
Executors should be familiar with the accountant, lawyer, and other professionals the testator employs. They may have further advice specific to the testator’s situation, such as diverse partnerships and complicated ownership of property.
The Bottom Line
Preparation can greatly reduce the complications of being an executor. Taking the steps above, while the testator is still alive will also help make sure that the executor carries out the testator’s wishes. Testators can also be proactive about setting up such processes to make their executor’s job easier.