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What Are My Responsibilities As Executor Of A Will?

When you are named the executor of a will, you are being handed some rather important responsibilities. Not fulfilling your role can land you in legal trouble, so it may be a good idea to learn more about what will be required of you. A Des Moines wills lawyer may be able to help you with that.

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What Does an Executor of a Will Have to Do For the Deceased?

The executor of a will is there to make sure that the wishes of the deceased are honored. They also must settle their affairs for them. They are often responsible for:

  • Filing a copy of the will with the probate court
  • Notifying banks, credit card companies, and government agencies about the death
  • Figuring out if probate is necessary and if so for which properties
  • Appearing in court on behalf of the estate
  • Setting up a bank account for any incoming money, like a final paycheck
  • Compiling a detailed list of the estate’s assets
  • Paying any outstanding taxes or debts

What Does an Executor of a Will Have to Do For Beneficiaries?

The executor also has a responsibility to the beneficiaries of the will. They must contact anyone who is listed in the will and inform them that they were named as beneficiaries. They should keep in touch with the beneficiaries throughout this entire process. Distributing assets to the decedent’s loved ones can take a while, especially if properties must go through the probate process.

Once everything is settled, the executor of a will is responsible for ensuring that the right property is distributed to the correct beneficiaries. This can take a little while, especially if some of the properties are sold off. The executor cannot drag their feet here and should keep beneficiaries informed of what is happening at all times.

What Other Responsibilities Does an Executor Have?

An executor is also responsible for repairing and maintaining the properties of the deceased. Letting a home fall into disrepair is not allowed, since that can affect the inheritance left behind for beneficiaries.

What Happens If They Don’t Do Their Job?

An executor that does not do their job can be sued and brought to court. They can also ultimately be removed from their position. This is why they need to handle their responsibilities as soon as they can and keep beneficiaries in the loop about what is going on. If a beneficiary cannot contact the executor, it just makes sense for them to compel them to appear in court.

Talk to Our Estate Planning Lawyers

If you have any confusion about your role as the executor of a will, contact Herting Law, PLLC. We can help you fulfill your obligations and get the affairs of the deceased in order. Schedule a consultation today.

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