How to Be an Executor
Step-by-Step Guide for Executors
Being named as the executor of a will can feel overwhelming, especially if you have never administered an estate before. While the role involves legal and financial responsibilities, understanding the process step by step can make it much more manageable.
This guide explains what executors typically need to do, from the first few days after a death through to distributing the estate.
Step 1 – Register the Death
Before most estate administration can begin, the death must be registered.
You’ll usually need certified copies of the death certificate, as banks, insurers and other organisations commonly request them.
Step 2 – Locate the Will
Find the original signed will.
The will identifies:
- Executors.
- Beneficiaries.
- Guardians.
- Funeral wishes.
- Gifts.
Ensure you are working from the latest valid version.
Step 3 – Arrange the Funeral
Where appropriate, executors often help arrange the funeral.
Check whether the deceased left any written funeral wishes, although these may not always be legally binding.
Step 4 – Identify the Estate
Prepare a full list of:
- Property.
- Savings.
- Investments.
- Pensions.
- Vehicles.
- Personal possessions.
- Outstanding debts.
You’ll need this information whether or not Probate is required.
Step 5 – Determine Whether Probate Is Needed
Some estates can be administered without Probate.
Others require a Grant of Probate before assets can be collected or sold.
Banks and financial institutions will usually explain their individual requirements.
Step 6 – Apply for Probate
If Probate is required, complete the application and provide the necessary information about the estate.
Depending on the estate, inheritance tax forms may also be required.
Step 7 – Collect Estate Assets
Once you have legal authority, you can begin collecting estate assets.
This may involve:
- Closing bank accounts.
- Selling investments.
- Selling or transferring property.
- Collecting refunds.
- Recovering money owed to the estate.
Step 8 – Pay Debts and Taxes
Before distributing inheritance, ensure:
- Funeral expenses are settled.
- Creditors are paid.
- Outstanding tax liabilities are dealt with.
Only once these obligations have been met should beneficiaries normally receive their inheritance.
Step 9 – Prepare Estate Accounts
Estate accounts provide a detailed summary of:
- Assets.
- Debts.
- Expenses.
- Tax.
- Distributions.
Beneficiaries may ask to see these records.
Step 10 – Distribute the Estate
Finally, distribute the remaining estate according to the will.
Obtain receipts where appropriate and retain your records after administration is complete.
Practical Tips for Executors
- Stay organised.
- Keep copies of all correspondence.
- Maintain a dedicated estate bank account where appropriate.
- Avoid rushing distributions.
- Seek advice if disputes arise.
- Keep beneficiaries informed.
Compare Probate Solicitors Near You
If you’re acting as an executor and would like professional support, Find a Funeral can help you compare trusted probate solicitors across the UK.
Whether you need help applying for Probate, selling property or administering the estate, experienced legal professionals are available to assist.
It depends on the complexity of the estate. Some estates are straightforward, while others involve significant legal and financial work.
Yes. Many executors instruct probate solicitors to assist with some or all of the administration process.
Generally, estate debts are paid from estate assets. However, executors can face personal liability if they administer the estate negligently or distribute assets before settling legitimate debts.
Related Resources
- Estate Administration Solicitor
- Administer an Estate
- Executor Checklist
- Probate Explained
- Grant of Probate
- Inheritance Tax
- Closing Bank Accounts After Death
- Notifying Companies After Death
- Probate Solicitors
- Will Writing Solicitors