Michael Williams
4 min readSep 7, 2023

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End-of-Life Planning

How To Choose the Right Executor for Your Will

Illustration by Michael Williams (Midjourney)

Introduction

Choosing the right executor for your will is an important decision that requires careful thought and consideration. Remember: An executor has a legal responsibility to carry out the terms of your will after you pass away. This involves arranging your funeral, locating your will, collecting your assets, paying off debts and taxes, and distributing your property to your named beneficiaries. Picking the wrong executor can lead to mistakes, delays, and frustration for your loved ones during an already difficult time.

So, how can you choose the best executor for your will? Follow the tips below and you’re likely to find the right person for the job.

Look for Someone Trustworthy and Responsible

An executor should be someone with strong ethics who you trust to carry out your final wishes without bias or regard for their own interests. Look for someone who is responsible, organized and detail-oriented to inventory assets, track paperwork, and handle financial transactions. Avoid naming someone with known financial struggles or irresponsibility with money.

Consider Family Members, But Be Objective

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Michael Williams

I’m a storyteller, Story Coach, writer, Guided Autobiography Instructor, End-of-Life Planning Facilitator & podcast host. Oh yeah, I play ukulele.