What is an executor of a will and how do you appoint them?

An executor of a will is somebody you nominate to carry out the wishes left in your will. They could be a friend, family member or a professional – the most important thing is that they feel comfortable and confident administering your estate.

The first thing your executors need to do is find your will, so it’s important you tell them where it’s kept after you’ve printed and signed it alongside two witnesses. If it’s needed, they’ll then be responsible for applying for probate so they can follow the wishes you set out in your will.

Your executors are also responsible for dealing with your estate. This may include closing your bank accounts, paying off any debts, and selling or transferring property so they can share everything out between your beneficiaries. Alternatively, your executors may choose a professional to handle the estate administration on their behalf.

If you’re dealing with a bereavement and need help with probate, you can find out about our fixed-price probate service.

Executors are given some powers under the laws of England and Wales, but it is common for solicitors and will writing professionals to include additional provisions in wills they provide.

When you write a will using our online will writing service, it will include a set of general provisions. These have been professionally drafted and approved by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), a global professional association that promotes high professional standards in this area of law.

You need to appoint at least one executor of your will – but you can choose up to four people or professionals. If you’re choosing friends and family, it’s recommended that you appoint at least two executors. This is because there are certain limitations for sole executors that don’t apply to professionals.

Yes, any of your beneficiaries can also act as your executor, as long as they’re over 18 years old. This can be useful if you’re sharing your estate between your children and want to make your oldest child an executor.

1. The amount of work involved

The first thing to think about when choosing your executors is the amount of work involved. If your estate is relatively small and doesn’t require the sale of any property, a financially-savvy friend or family member may be comfortable acting as an executor. But if the situation is more complex and requires the sale and distribution of property, you may be better off choosing a professional executor service.

2. How they’ll feel after your death

Another thing to consider is whether the people you choose will appreciate having to deal with your estate. Between dealing with grief and planning your funeral, being an executor of a will can feel like an unwelcome burden to some people, so it’s important to bear this in mind when appointing executors in your will.

When you write a will with our online will writing service, appointing your executors is easy. Whether you choose friends, family, Farewill Trustees or a combination of all three, you can do so in just a few clicks.

After you’ve finished your will, our specialists will check it over within 5 days to make sure your wishes are clear. Then you’ll be able to print it, sign it alongside two witnesses and put it away somewhere safe knowing that your estate is in good hands when you’re gone.