Being an Executor is Harder Than You Think—Here’s How to Make It Easier
When a loved one asks you to be their estate executor, it might seem like an honor—or just a bit of paperwork. But the reality? It can be overwhelming, time-consuming, and even financially draining. If you're creating an estate plan, understanding these challenges now can help you set up your executor for success.
The Hidden Costs of Being an Executor
One of the biggest surprises for executors is the financial burden. When someone passes away, their assets are temporarily frozen. That means funeral costs—often between $10,000 and $25,000—fall on the executor to pay upfront, with reimbursement taking months (if there are funds at all).
Beyond that, the executor may need to cover:
Mortgage payments, property taxes, and utility bills for the deceased’s home.
Legal fees, court costs, and potentially a bond, which could be thousands of dollars.
Personal expenses while handling the estate—which can take months or even years.
Without proper planning, an executor could end up paying out of pocket and waiting for months to get reimbursed.
Paperwork Piles Up Fast
Being an executor isn’t just about distributing assets. It’s about tracking down financial accounts, closing utilities, filing court documents, handling final tax returns, and ensuring nothing is lost in the shuffle.
If estate planning wasn’t done properly, important accounts could go unclaimed and turned over to the state—meaning your loved one’s hard-earned money could end up with the government instead of family.
Family Tensions Can Get Messy
Even when a will is clear, family members don’t always agree. Executors often find themselves caught between grieving siblings, upset relatives, and difficult conversations. And in some cases, disagreements turn into expensive legal battles that could have been avoided with better planning.
How to Make Things Easier for Your Executor
The best way to protect your loved ones from this headache is with a solid plan. That’s where my Life & Legacy Planning® process comes in. I’ll help you:
✅ List all your assets—so nothing gets lost.
✅ Set aside funds for expenses—so your executor isn’t paying out of pocket.
✅ Avoid probate—so your loved ones skip court delays.
✅ Choose the right executor—not just by default, but based on who can handle the job.
A little planning now can save your family from stress, expense, and conflict later.
📅 Schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation today.
This article is a service of Starsia Law, a Personal Family Lawyer® Firm. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That's why we offer a Life & Legacy Planning Session™, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before and make all the best choices for the people you love.
The content is sourced from Personal Family Lawyer® for use by Personal Family Lawyer® firms, a source believed to be providing accurate information. This material was created for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as ERISA, tax, legal, or investment advice. If you are seeking legal advice specific to your needs, such advice services must be obtained on your own separate from this educational material.