Who to choose as an executor of your Will

When you begin making a will it is crucial to consider who to choose as an executor. An Executor is someone who deals with the management of the estate and assets of someone who dies. An Executor is appointed because he or she is trusted by the person making a will and is in charge for collecting in the assets of the estate and administering them to the Beneficiaries named in the deceased‚ Will.

An Executor can be an individual or a trust corporation if required. Quite often more than one Executor is appointed by someone who is making a will. Where more than one Executor is appointed the Executors have to act together and make decisions by a majority.

An Executor has to be over 18 and cannot be bankrupt.

Executors can benefit from the deceased, Will.

Executors always have to act in the best welfare of the Beneficiaries and are often also appointed Trustees.

An Executor job begins immediately after the death and finishes once all of the assets have been distributed.

I am making a will - who do I name as an Executor?

When making a will, you should always appoint someone who:-

• You trust implicitly
• Is of more or less the same age as you
• Is 18 or over and not bankrupt
• Is financially wise or has a close association with the family

Whilst it is not a requirement, you should discuss your choice of appointment with your Executors before making a will, to ensure that they are happy to act when you die.

The responsibility of an executor is, therefore, of vital importance to anyone considering making a will.