Estate Planning Glossary
The person named in a will to carry out its instructions — paying debts, filing taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries.
Plain English
Your executor is the person who handles everything after you die. They file the will with the court, notify creditors, pay outstanding debts, file a final tax return, and then distribute what's left to your beneficiaries. It's a significant responsibility — choose someone organized, trustworthy, and willing.
Why it matters
Without a named executor, a court appoints an administrator — often a stranger — to handle your estate. That person may not know your wishes or your family.
First Light collects your executor's name during will generation and names them formally in the document. You can also name a backup executor.
Related terms
Common questions
Choose someone you trust who is organized, responsible, and willing to take on the role. It's often a spouse, adult child, or close friend. Avoid choosing someone who is elderly, lives far away, or has a conflict of interest as a major beneficiary.
Executors are entitled to reasonable compensation from the estate, typically 2 to 4 percent of the estate value depending on state law. Family members often waive the fee.
Name a backup executor in your will. If no backup is named and your primary executor cannot serve, the court appoints an administrator.
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