Choosing an executor for your estate is an important decision, but you do not have to feel overwhelmed by it. It can be as easy as picking someone you trust to carry out your wishes.
Choosing an Executor | Lawyer in Raleigh NC
An executor will have many duties to fulfill, so the person must be up to the task. Many people name their spouse or children, but some do not want to leave that burden to their families, so they chose a friend or even a professional such as their lawyer or accountant.
The person named as executor must be able, and willing, to take on the following duties:
- File the will with probate court
- Set up an account to pay bills or for incoming money
- Take an inventory of the deceased’s assets
- Notify banks and government agencies of the death
- Maintain businesses and/or property until it is distributed or sold
- Pay debts owed by the deceased
- File and pay taxes
- Distribute assets to heirs
- Appear in court on behalf of the estate
This list is not all encompassing, and the process may take several months to several years, depending on the complexity of the deceased’s assets.
To learn more about choosing an executor, visit back with our next blog post!
Having someone you trust with your estate and the distribution of your assets is important in making sure that your inheritors obtain what you want them to receive. The person can be named as part of the estate planning process, which includes writing a will. Another aspect of estate planning is determining who will speak on your behalf should you become unable to do so because of illness or other incompetency. You can include a power of attorney document that will name someone to represent you.
Eldreth Law Firm | Lawyer in Raleigh NC
If you need help planning your estate, call our lawyer in Raleigh NC today. We can answer questions you may have about estate planning, wills, power of attorney, and more. Do not leave your family without a plan outlining your wishes. We also handle elder law, small business law, trademarking, copyrighting, and DWI issues.