Traits that you should not miss when choosing an executor

On Behalf of | Sep 7, 2022 | Wills

When someone dies in Georgia, their estate has to be managed and distributed in a way that is consistent with their wishes as stated in their will. This complex process falls on the shoulders of the executor, who is usually appointed by the deceased ahead of time to carry out their final wishes. So what makes a good executor?

Organization

Usually, the executor is responsible for managing a deceased person’s finances and property. This includes tasks like paying bills, filing taxes and distributing assets to beneficiaries. To do this effectively, the executor must be organized and have a good system for keeping track of paperwork and deadlines. Otherwise, the estate could end up in financial trouble.

Communication

An executor must be able to communicate effectively with the beneficiaries of the estate. This means keeping them updated on the status of the estate and being honest about any problems that come up. It can be a difficult conversation to have, but it’s important that the beneficiaries understand what’s going on so they can make informed decisions about their inheritance.

Problem-solving

The executor is often tasked with solving problems that come up during the administration of the estate. This might include dealing with disagreements among beneficiaries, managing difficult financial situations or even just handling unexpected challenges that come up. The ability to identify and solve problems concerning wills and estates is essential for any executor.

Patience

The process of administering an estate can be long and complicated, so it’s important that the executor has patience. There will likely be many times when things move slowly or seem to be going in circles. It’s important to keep a cool head and stay focused on the goal: carrying out the deceased’s final wishes.

Although the court system appoints executors, in most cases the person named in the will is chosen. If you have been named as an executor, it’s important to understand the weight of the responsibility you’ve been given. The job requires a high level of organization, communication and problem-solving skills.