What is an executor?

An executor is the person chosen in a will to take care of someone’s affairs after they die. 

If this is your first time seeing the word estate and you're going through a loss, this article is for you. It tells you what an executor does, why it matters, what role you play, and what to do next. 

An Explanation 

An executor is identified in a will. This person's job is to take care of the person’s affairs after their death. This includes things like handling documents, paying final bills, and making sure assets are distributed according to the will.

If you were not named in the will, you are not the executor.

If you were named but have not been contacted or asked to act yet, you may not need to do anything immediately.

What an Executor Actually Does

The executor’s role is mostly administrative. It is about organizing, communicating, and following legal steps, not making emotional or personal decisions.

Common responsibilities include:

• Locating and filing the will with the appropriate court

• Coordinating with a funeral home if arrangements are not already handled

• Notifying banks, creditors, and government agencies

• Managing accounts, property, and outstanding bills

• Distributing assets to beneficiaries as outlined in the will

• Keeping basic records of actions taken

Not all executors do all of these things. Some tasks may be handled by attorneys, financial institutions, or other family members.

Why the Executor Matters

After a death, many organizations will only speak with the executor or someone legally authorized to act.

This means the executor often becomes main contact for:

• Legal paperwork

• Financial access

• Official decisions

• Communication with institutions
  
  

Without an executor, or before one is formally recognized, progress can stall. This is why the role exists: to give one person clear authority to move things forward.

How Do You Know If You Are the Executor?

You are an executor only if one of the following is true:

• You are named as executor in the will

• An attorney, court, or family member has formally told you that you are named

• You have been asked to sign documents related to probate or estate administration
  
  

If you are unsure, that’s normal. Many people do not know they are named until after the death.

If no will exists, the court may appoint someone instead. That person is often called an “administrator,” but the role is similar.

If You Are Named as Executor, What Happens Next?

Being named does not mean you must act immediately.

In most cases:

• You are not expected to do everything at once

• You can ask for help from an attorney or professional

• You can decline the role if you are unable or unwilling to serve
  
  

The first step is usually confirming the will and understanding whether probate is required. Everything else follows from there.

If You Are Not the Executor

If someone else is serving as executor, you may not need to take action at all.

You can:

• Ask who the executor is

• Stay informed if you are a beneficiary

• Focus on personal and family needs rather than paperwork

You are not expected to manage legal or financial matters unless you are legally responsible.

Why Guidance Matters

After a death, people are often introduced to legal terms and responsibilities without context. That lack of clarity can create unnecessary stress, especially when you’re already dealing with a lot. Understanding what applies to you—and what doesn’t—helps you avoid taking on more than you need to.

Guidance matters because it gives you a steady reference point. Waypoint is here to help you understand what’s in front of you, in plain language, so you can move forward without pressure, guesswork, or urgency.