How to Choose an Executor for Your Will
Choose an executor you trust completely, who is organized, likely to outlive you, and comfortable handling money and paperwork — and talk with them before you name them. Many people pick a spouse, adult child, sibling, or close friend; the right answer depends on your situation, not a rule.
Here are the things worth weighing as you make that choice.
Choose someone you trust
You should choose someone who you trust completely, who you know will carry out your wishes as you intended. That person will vary depending on your situation. Many people select a parent, sibling, child, or other close relative; but don’t be afraid to go with a friend if that fits your situation better. If you choose someone older than you who becomes unable to execute your wishes in the future, you can always update your executor through TruWill’s maintenance plan.
Consider their financial and legal knowledge
Being an executor is easier with knowledge and experience in financial and legal matters. Consider the financial and legal knowledge of your prospective executors to ensure they are capable of managing your assets, paying off your debts, and distributing your assets according to your wishes.
Think about age and health
Your executor should be someone who is likely to outlive you and is in good health. If your chosen executor is not in good health, a maintenance plan lets you make adjustments down the road.
Look for someone who is organized and detail-oriented
It is ideal to select someone who is detail-oriented and organized to ensure that your wishes are carried out properly. This is where your best childhood friend may not make the cut!
Discuss your decision with your chosen executor
Before making your final decision, have a conversation with the person you’d like to choose. Make sure they understand the responsibilities that come with being an executor and are willing to accept the role. Additionally, make sure they know where you will store your legal documents so that they can find them.
Consider creating your will with TruWill
Creating a will with TruWill can be a convenient and cost-effective option. TruWill guides you through the process step by step, and if you aren’t sure about filling out the forms yourself, give us a call and we will be happy to fill them out with you. Your documents are built on templates designed and drafted by licensed attorneys and delivered ready to execute in your state.
Once your will is complete, we send your documents in a binder that you can have signed and witnessed according to your state’s requirements.
No matter how you plan your future, we wish you the best of luck!
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