Executor Duties

The executor of a will has a lot of work to do. Much of it needs to be done quickly. It can be an overwhelming job for people who are not prepared to do it and who have never been executors before.

However, the job can also be relatively simple, if newly appointed executors keep a few basic things in mind.

Recently, the Wills, Trusts & Estates Prof Blog offered some tips for new executors in “Top 5 Things to Remember if You’re the Executor,” including:

If you do not know what you are doing, then hire a professional estate attorney who can help you. Let the attorney worry about what needs to be done and when. The attorney can make sure you are doing what you are supposed to be doing.
As soon as you possibly can, get a copy of the death certificate. This will allow you to make your status as executor official with the probate court.
Make sure you are casting a wide net and getting everything that possibly needs to be included in an estate. Do not just rely on what the will says, but check around for other assets and liabilities.
Let everyone know that you are the executor. In some states, you are legally required to tell certain people and entities. Those are something that an estate attorney can help you with.
Get assistance from tax professionals to file a final tax return.

Reference: Wills, Trusts & Estates Prof Blog (July 27, 2017) “Top 5 Things to Remember if You’re the Executor.”

Hear From Our Clients

“On the threshold of retirement, we finally decided to quit thinking we could self-prepare the requisite documents. We had previously had only a very simple will. We needed the necessary legal (including updated will) & health care docs but didn’t want to deal with the time & complication of legalese. Cindy made the process relatively painless. She took the time to explain and answer questions without trying to upsell services. We were done in 2 meetings plus the reading of emailed drafts. In addition to preparing the documents, Nelson Eldercare will be there when our adult children need advice on executing the plans we’ve put in place.So glad it’s behind us and would recommend Cindy and her helpful staff.”

- Bonnie

Cindy and her company treat their clients like family. Nelson’s offers clear, direct, and honest guidance in planning for your families security and future. No one wants to actively sit down and make these decisions, but Nelson’s makes this process seamless. I was so impressed with their willingness to answer all questions big or small. So glad I made the decision have them help my mom and dad and now me. You can’t go wrong with Nelson’s Elder Care Law.

- Hope

The very best elder law attorney and staff anyone could ever ask for! I have referred a number of clients to Cindy and she never disappoints. She is kind, caring, and extremely thorough in making sure everything is completed as it should be. I highly recommend Cindy for anyone needing lawyer services; she truly goes above and beyond for every client she helps and has had a huge impact in so many peoples’ lives. Thank you, Cindy and staff, for everything that you do- I’m so glad to know you!

- Kerri

I heard Cindy’s presentation at a Senior Luncheon at my church, and was very impressed. She helped my daughter and me understand many aspects of elder law. Josh has also been very helpful in my planning to enter an independent living situation . I have told many friends about them.

- Charlotte

Cindy and the Nelson Elder Care Law team are trustworthy and helpful. They are the experts in elder care law. At Leaf Cremation, we entrust our families to the care of the Nelson team when their services are needed.

- Pierce