What Are the Main Responsibilities of an Executor?

When someone passes away, one of the first things that needs to happen is appointing an executor - the person responsible for handling the estate. If you’ve been named executor, you might be wondering what that actually means. It’s an important job, and it comes with both authority and responsibility.

The executor’s first job is to open the estate . That means filing a petition and supporting paperwork with the Register of Wills in the county where the person lived. You’ll also submit the death certificate and, if there is one, the original will. Once that’s done, the Register of Wills opens a file for the decedent and officially appoints you as executor or personal representative.

Next, you’ll need to collect and document all of the decedent’s property. That includes:

• Bank accounts and investments
• Real estate and vehicles
• Personal property like furniture, jewelry, and household items

This list, called the inventory , is filed with the Register of Wills within three months. It gives a full picture of what the estate owns and what needs to be managed or distributed.

The executor often helps with disposing of property - selling items, donating possessions, and ensuring each beneficiary receives what the will provides. If there’s real estate, the executor might oversee a sale or coordinate with heirs if the property is being kept in the family.

This part can take time and sensitivity, especially when family members are involved. Keeping good communication and detailed records helps everything stay smooth.

Part of your responsibility is to make sure valid debts and expenses are paid - but not overpaid. Executors sometimes pay unnecessary bills simply because they don’t know what’s required. This is one area where an attorney’s guidance can make a real difference.

The final major task is filing an accounting - a detailed report showing:

• What assets came into the estate
• What bills and debts were paid
• What property or money was distributed to beneficiaries

This report is reviewed by the Register of Wills. Once approved, the estate can be officially closed.

Being an executor isn’t just about paperwork - it’s about following through on someone’s final wishes while keeping things organized and fair. It can feel like a lot, but with the right plan and support, you can handle it confidently and avoid common mistakes.

If you’ve been named executor and aren’t sure where to start, I can walk you through each step - from opening the estate to the final accounting - so you can focus on honoring your loved one without worrying about missing a detail.