When you make your estate plan, you’ll need to pick someone who will administer it when the time comes. While a probate court will typically oversee things, the executor will do the bulk of the work.
How can you know who to choose? The following are some pointers worth considering.
You must be able to trust them
Make sure you choose an executor whose integrity is unquestionable. That’s one of the reasons so many people choose family – they know they can trust them. Remember that circumstances can sometimes make an honest person vulnerable to temptation. Avoid choosing someone with money problems or who is vulnerable to the ill influence of others.
They need to be able to communicate well
While an executor mainly acts alone, they have an obligation to keep heirs or beneficiaries informed of their progress. They also need to make contact with creditors and officials. If they miscommunicate or avoid communicating important information, it could lead to confusion, suspicion and delays.
Pick someone well-organized and with the time to complete the job
The person you choose needs to follow all required steps in the right order. Anyone who tends to take shortcuts or quickly get bored of projects is a poor choice. Also, while you cannot predict how busy someone will be when you die, try to pick someone likely to be able to make time. A friend who has been spinning too many plates ever since you’ve known them will probably still be doing so for years to come.
If you are unsure who to pick, consider learning more about what the role entails first. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to get started.
