Someone trusted you with this. Here's how to do it right.
You don't need to know everything today. But understanding your duties — and your rights — helps you serve the estate well.
What it means to be executor
An executor (sometimes called a personal representative) is the person named in a will to manage the probate process. If you've been named, someone trusted you to carry out their final wishes.
The job comes with real responsibilities: filing court documents, notifying creditors, managing assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing what remains to beneficiaries. You're legally accountable for doing it correctly.
The good news: you don't have to do it alone, you can hire professionals, and in most states you're entitled to compensation for your time.
What you need to know
You can decline
Being named executor doesn't obligate you to serve. If you can't or don't want to, the court will appoint an alternate or next eligible person.
File the will with the court
Probate begins when you file the will and petition the court to be appointed executor. Until then, you don't have legal authority to act.
Notify beneficiaries and creditors
Most states require formal notice to everyone named in the will and to known creditors. Publication in a local newspaper may also be required.
Inventory and protect assets
You're responsible for identifying, valuing, and safeguarding estate assets until distribution.
Pay debts and taxes
Estate debts, final income taxes, and any estate taxes must be paid before beneficiaries receive their share.
You can be compensated
Most states allow executors to receive reasonable compensation. Some states set specific fee schedules; others use a "reasonable" standard.
Your named as executor checklist
Locate the original will and any codicils
Decide if you're willing and able to serve
Order certified death certificates — how many do you need?
Use our Executor Duties Checklist for step-by-step guidance
Calculate your compensation with the Executor Fee Calculator
Estimate costs with the Probate Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
No. You can decline to serve. If you do, the court will look to any alternate named in the will, or appoint someone according to state law — usually a spouse, adult child, or other close relative.
It varies by state. Use our Executor Fee Calculator to see exactly what you can charge — some states have statutory fee schedules (a percentage of the estate), while others allow "reasonable compensation." You can also waive your fee entirely.
Yes. Executors have fiduciary duties to the estate and beneficiaries. If you mismanage assets, miss deadlines, or distribute improperly, you can be held personally liable. This is why many executors hire an attorney to help.
Typically 6-18 months, but it varies widely by state, estate size, and complexity. Contested wills, tax issues, or hard-to-value assets can extend the process significantly.
Stay neutral, follow the will exactly, document everything, and communicate clearly. If disputes escalate, the court can provide guidance — or you can petition to have a professional executor appointed instead.
Free tools to help
Documents and calculators to guide you through the process.
What Are My Duties as Executor?
Complete guide for executors and personal representatives navigating probate. Court filings, creditor claims, and distribution timelines.
How Much Can an Executor Charge?
Calculate how much an executor (personal representative) can charge for administering an estate. See if your state has statutory fees or uses reasonable compensation.
How Much Does Probate Cost?
Estimate attorney fees, executor fees, court costs, and timeline for probating an estate in your state. See if the estate qualifies for simplified probate procedures.
How Many Death Certificates Do I Need?
Calculate how many certified death certificates you need based on the assets and accounts you need to close. See state-specific ordering information.
How Do I Settle an Estate?
Get a personalized checklist for settling an estate after someone passes away. Covers trust administration, probate, and intestate estates.
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