The executor is the person you appoint to manage your estate after you pass away. Their duties include gathering and protecting your assets, paying any debts and taxes, and distributing your estate according to your Will. You can appoint more than one executor, and it’s common to choose someone you trust, such as a family member or professional advisor.  

The role of the Executor:

The executor’s role in a will is to carry out the wishes of the deceased person as outlined in their will. They are responsible for managing and finalising the person’s estate after death.  

• Locate the will - Find the most recent valid version of the will.  

• Apply for probate - If required, apply to the court for a grant of probate, which gives them legal authority to manage the estate.  

• Notify beneficiaries and relevant institutions - Contact beneficiaries named in the will and inform banks, government agencies, and others of the death.  

• Identify and gather assets - Locate all assets of the deceased (bank accounts, property, investments, personal belongings, etc.).  

• Pay debts & liabilities - Ensure all outstanding debts, taxes, & expenses are paid from the estate.  

• Distribute the estate - Distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries according to the will.  

• Keep records - Maintain clear records of all transactions and provide accounts to beneficiaries if requested.  

• Act in good faith - Follow the terms of the will and act in the best interests of the estate and beneficiaries.  

An executor generally cannot contest your will in their role as executor, but they can contest it as an individual beneficiary or interested party—before being officially appointed.  

Beneficiaries are the people or organisations (such as charities) who will receive your assets or gifts from your estate. You can leave specific items, amounts of money, or a percentage of your estate to your chosen beneficiaries.  

A guardian is the person you nominate to care for your children (under 18) if both parents pass away. Appointing a guardian in your Will ensures that someone you trust is responsible for your children’s upbringing, and it helps avoid uncertainty or disputes about their care.