Executor checklist: where to start

If you've been asked to be an executor, you do not need to know everything straight away. Start by working out what needs attention, what information is available and who can help.

An executor is the person responsible for carrying out the wishes in a will and dealing with the practical steps that follow.

Every situation is different, but this checklist can help you get organised.

Start with the will

• Find the most recent will
• Check where the original is kept
• Confirm who the executors are
• Read through the wishes in the will
• Note who is named to receive something
• Identify any solicitor or professional adviser involved

If there is more than one executor, it can help to agree early on how you will work together.

Gather the important information

• Make a list of bank accounts
• Find details of savings and investments
• Check for pensions
• Find insurance policies
• Gather property and mortgage details
• Make a note of any significant debts
• Find information about vehicles or other valuable items
• Check whether there are business interests
• Locate important documents and records

You may not find everything at once. Build the picture gradually as information becomes available.

Contact the right people

• Speak to the solicitor, if there is one
• Contact banks and financial providers
• Contact pension providers
• Contact insurance companies
• Speak to an accountant or tax adviser if needed
• Contact other organisations that need to know

Keep a simple record of who you have contacted, when you contacted them and what they asked you to do next.

Work out what is owned and owed

• List the money, property and other assets
• List outstanding debts
• Arrange valuations where needed
• Keep copies of statements and supporting documents
• Record any money paid or received

This information helps build a clear picture of the estate, meaning the money, property and other things left behind.

Understand probate and tax

• Check whether probate is needed
• Find out what information will be required
• Check whether any tax needs to be dealt with
• Get professional advice where appropriate
• Keep copies of forms and correspondence

Probate is the legal process that can give an executor authority to deal with an estate.

You do not need to become an expert yourself. A solicitor, accountant or other professional can help where specialist advice is needed.

Keep good records

• Keep important paperwork together
• Save copies of emails and letters
• Record payments made from the estate
• Record money received
• Keep notes of important conversations
• Keep other executors updated

Good records make it easier to see what has been done and what still needs attention.

Keep people informed

• Let the people named in the will know what is happening
• Give updates when there is something useful to share
• Avoid promising dates before you know what is involved
• Keep explanations clear and straightforward

You do not need to have every answer immediately. A simple update can often be enough.

When everything is ready

• Check that the main administrative steps are complete
• Make sure outstanding costs and debts have been dealt with
• Confirm what can be passed on under the will
• Keep a clear record of what each person receives
• Store the executor records somewhere safe

One step at a time

Being an executor can involve a lot of moving parts, but you do not have to tackle everything at once.

Start with the will. Gather the information you can. Keep clear records. Ask for professional help when you need it.

A good checklist will not do the job for you, but it can make the next step much easier to see.