What does an executor do?
An executor is the person named in a will to carry out its instructions. In practice they value the estate, apply for the grant of probate, collect in the assets, pay the debts, funeral and any inheritance tax, and distribute what remains to the beneficiaries. They must act in the beneficiaries' best interests, keep accounts, and can be personally liable for mistakes.
An executor's job, explained
The executor steps into the deceased's financial shoes for a time — with legal duties to match.
The main tasks
- Find and prove the will and confirm their authority to act.
- Value the estate — property, accounts, investments, possessions, and debts.
- Deal with inheritance tax — report to HMRC and pay any tax due.
- Apply for the grant of probate, the document that proves their authority.
- Collect in the assets — close accounts, sell or transfer property.
- Pay debts and expenses, then distribute to the beneficiaries.
- Keep estate accounts recording everything in and out.
The duties behind the tasks
An executor must act honestly, with reasonable care, in the beneficiaries' interests rather than their own, and without unnecessary delay. Where the will creates a trust (for children, say), the executor often also becomes a trustee with continuing responsibilities.
Sarah is named executor for her mother. She gathers valuations, finds no inheritance tax is due, applies for probate (£300), sells the house, settles the utility and care-home bills, and divides the remainder between herself and her brother — keeping a simple account of every transaction to share with him.
- Complete the questionnaireA few guided questions about you, your family and your wishes.
- Human reviewYour answers are checked by the ClearLegacy editorial team for completeness.
- 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
- Senior Courts Act 1981, section 114 (personal representatives) — legislation.gov.uk
- GOV.UK — Applying for probate
- Trustee Act 1925 & Trustee Act 2000 (duties and powers) — legislation.gov.uk
- 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
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