What Does an Executor Actually Do? A Practical Guide for Indiana Families
The Chosen One
Sean Musser, Highline Owner
11/14/20244 min read
Being named the executor of someone's estate is often seen as an honor.
In reality, it can also feel like a second full-time job.
Most people become an executor only once in their lives. They aren't attorneys, accountants, or probate experts. They're usually a son, daughter, spouse, sibling, or close friend trying to do the right thing during an already difficult time.
If you've recently learned that you're the executor of an estate, take a deep breath.
The responsibilities are significant, but they become much more manageable when you understand them one step at a time.
What Is an Executor?
An executor is the person responsible for carrying out the wishes outlined in a person's will.
If there isn't a will, the court typically appoints someone to perform a similar role, often called a personal representative.
Your job isn't to make decisions based on what seems fair.
Your job is to follow the law, follow the will when one exists, and act in the best interest of the estate.
Your First Priority Isn't Cleaning the House
Many executors immediately feel pressure to start sorting through belongings.
That's understandable, but it usually isn't the first thing that needs attention.
Instead, focus on protecting important information and property.
Secure the home.
Locate the will.
Gather financial documents.
Notify close family members.
Make sure valuables and important paperwork are safe.
Those first few days are more about preserving the estate than dividing it.
Create a Master Folder
One of the best things you can do is keep everything in one place.
Create a folder, binder, or digital file that contains:
The will
Death certificates
Bank information
Insurance policies
Mortgage information
Vehicle titles
Property deeds
Utility accounts
Tax records
Contact information for attorneys and financial advisors
You'll refer to these documents repeatedly throughout the process.
Keep Good Records
As executor, you'll likely handle expenses on behalf of the estate.
Save receipts.
Document conversations.
Keep copies of invoices.
Write down important dates.
If you reimburse yourself for legitimate estate expenses, make sure you have documentation.
Good records protect both you and the beneficiaries.
Don't Rush to Distribute Property
This is one of the biggest mistakes executors can make.
It can be tempting to let family members begin taking furniture, tools, or sentimental items right away.
Before anything is distributed, make sure you understand what the will says and whether the estate must go through probate.
In some cases, assets need to remain part of the estate until legal obligations have been satisfied.
If you're unsure, ask an attorney before making major decisions.
Pay Attention to Deadlines
Every estate is different, but there are often legal and financial deadlines that must be met.
Taxes may need to be filed.
Creditors may need to be notified.
The probate court may require certain filings.
Missing deadlines can create unnecessary complications, so staying organized is one of the executor's most valuable skills.
What About the Personal Belongings?
Eventually, attention turns to the contents of the home.
This is often the most emotional part of the process.
Furniture.
Photographs.
Collections.
Holiday decorations.
Family heirlooms.
Kitchen items.
Workshop tools.
Nearly every object has a memory attached to it.
Before selling or donating anything, make sure family members have had an opportunity to identify sentimental items that were intended for them.
Good communication early in the process prevents many family disagreements later.
Should You Have an Estate Sale?
Not every estate needs one.
If the home contains only a few items, selling them individually or donating them may make more sense.
If the home contains decades of furniture, household goods, tools, collectibles, antiques, or farm equipment, an estate sale can often be one of the most efficient ways to liquidate the contents.
Every situation is different, which is why it's helpful to have someone walk through the property before making a decision.
Remember That You Don't Have to Know Everything
Many executors worry they're going to make a mistake.
The truth is that very few people have prior experience handling an estate.
You're expected to act responsibly.
You're not expected to know every legal requirement or recognize the value of every antique sitting in the garage.
When questions come up, ask professionals.
Attorneys can answer legal questions.
Accountants can help with tax issues.
Estate sale companies can help determine the best way to handle the contents of the home.
No one expects you to become an expert overnight.
Give Yourself Some Grace
Settling an estate is rarely just paperwork.
You're often making difficult decisions while grieving the loss of someone important.
Some days you'll feel productive.
Other days you'll spend an hour looking through old photo albums before accomplishing anything else.
That's part of the process.
Take your time when you can, stay organized, and don't be afraid to ask for help.
How Highline Estate Sales Helps Executors
We work with executors throughout Indiana who suddenly find themselves responsible for an entire household of belongings.
Our role is to make one part of that responsibility easier.
We help identify items that may have value, organize the home, prepare and conduct the estate sale, and provide clear documentation afterward so executors have one less thing to worry about.
Every estate is different, and every family has different goals.
Whether you're months away from making a decision or just beginning to understand your responsibilities, we're always happy to answer questions and help you understand your options.