To: Estate Executors, Administrators, and Personal Representatives:
Someone trusts your judgment, and your ability to get things done. If that were not the case, you wouldn't have been appointed executor.
Although the Estate needs to be settled, you have a life of your own. Your time is limited; you have personal commitments to keep while you work on Estate issues. Perhaps your situation is made worse by your living out of town or being emotionally overwhelmed.
There is a lot to be done, certainly. Right now, you need to catch your breath and assess the situation. Take notes. Make a list.
Help is available, and most of the help has their hand out for payment.
The attorney. The accountant. The auctioneer. The real estate agent. All of them have their opinions, and they all want your business. Most of them are honest, hardworking people. Some of them are snakes.
You can only sort the "good help" from the "bad help" if you know enough about estate settlement to make sound judgments.
My purpose in this section of my website is to provide you with enough information to make sound judgments. I continually scour the web for what I consider to be good advice (I've been liquidating estates for over 25 years; I know good advice when I hear it). I have listed herein articles that I think are worthwhile. Some of the articles I have written myself, some were written by others (I give credit when due). If I miss a topic and you have a question, you can email me. Be aware that I am not a lawyer or accountant, and I do not offer legal or tax advice. Use your own judgment in evaluating the opinions offered.
Frequently Asked Questions About An Executor's Duties
What is Probate, and why do I have to go through it?
Where can I find a simple To-Do-List of my responsibilities?
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