Being an Executor – What You Actually Need to Know Before You Say Yes

Colin Barrett
Apr 2
3 min read

Many people are asked to be an executor in someone’s Will and immediately say yes, because they feel honoured, or because they feel they should not refuse.

But very few people are told what the role actually involves.

Being an executor is not just a title. It is a legal responsibility, and in some situations it can involve a lot of work and a lot of responsibility.

Before you agree to be an executor, it is important to understand what the role really means.

What does an executor actually do?

An executor is responsible for administering someone’s estate after they die. In simple terms, this usually involves:

Registering the death
Locating the Will
Identifying all assets and liabilities
Valuing the estate
Applying for probate
Paying debts and bills
Dealing with HMRC
Collecting in assets
Selling property if necessary
Distributing the estate to beneficiaries
Keeping records and accounts

This can take many months, and sometimes years if the estate is complicated.

Executors can be personally responsible

One thing many people do not realise is that executors can be personally liable if mistakes are made.

For example:

If they distribute money to beneficiaries before all debts are paid
If they fail to pay inheritance tax correctly
If they do not keep proper records
If they favour one beneficiary over another
If they lose estate money through poor administration

In most cases this is not a problem, but it does mean the role should be taken seriously.

It can take a lot of time

People often underestimate how long estate administration takes. Even a relatively simple estate can take six to twelve months to complete. More complicated estates can take much longer.

Executors often find themselves dealing with:

Banks
Insurance companies
Pension providers
Utility companies
HMRC
Solicitors
Estate agents
Beneficiaries asking when they will receive their inheritance

It can feel like a part-time job for a while.

You do not have to do everything yourself

One important thing to remember is that an executor does not have to do everything personally. They can instruct a solicitor or probate specialist to deal with the administration and simply oversee the process.

The legal responsibility still sits with the executor, but much of the work can be delegated to professionals.

This often makes the process much easier and less stressful.

Should you accept the role?

Being an executor is often a sign that someone trusts you and believes you are organised and responsible. But it is perfectly reasonable to ask questions before agreeing.

You might want to ask: