I've been named an executor — what now?
Being an executor means you're responsible for carrying out the will: valuing the estate, applying for probate, paying debts and tax, and distributing to the beneficiaries. You can say no (renounce) before you start, but once you begin acting it's hard to step back. You can also be personally liable for mistakes — so accuracy and good records matter.
Your role, explained
What you'll need to do
- Find the will and confirm your appointment; get certified copies of the death certificate.
- Value the estate and deal with any inheritance tax.
- Apply for the grant of probate (£300; £16 per extra copy).
- Collect in assets, pay debts, keep estate accounts, then distribute to beneficiaries.
Protect yourself
- Value carefully and keep evidence.
- Place statutory creditor notices and wait six months after the grant before final distribution.
- Take advice on anything complex (business assets, trusts, disputes).
How ClearLegacy helps
Our executor and probate guides — plus the free probate calculator — walk you through each step and how to limit your personal liability. You don't have to do it from memory.
Tom learns he's the executor for his aunt. Before doing anything irreversible, he reads the executor checklist, gathers the will and death certificates, and values the estate — then applies for probate, placing creditor notices to protect himself before paying anyone out.
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean to be named an executor?
You're responsible for carrying out the will — valuing the estate, applying for probate, paying debts and tax, and distributing to beneficiaries. You can renounce before you start, but can be personally liable for mistakes once you act.
Do I have to act as executor?
No. You can renounce the role, but only before you begin dealing with the estate. Once you've started acting, stepping back is much harder.
- Complete the questionnaireA few guided questions about you, your family and your wishes.
- Review and confirmYou review and confirm your answers before anything is finalised.
- Receive your documentsYour will and supporting paperwork are produced, ready to print.
- Sign correctlyClear instructions on signing and witnessing so the will is legally valid.
- Protect your familyYour wishes are recorded and your loved ones are spared the intestacy default.
Sources
- GOV.UK — What to do when someone dies: step by step
- GOV.UK — Applying for probate
- Citizens Advice — Dealing with the estate of someone who has died
- Reviewed by
- ClearLegacy editorial team
- Last reviewed
- June 2026
- Next review
- December 2026
- Jurisdiction
- England & Wales
Dealing with an estate? Start here.
ClearLegacy's free guides and probate calculator help executors handle the estate, step by step.
Probate help for executors