Powers and duties of the Executor/Administrator

An executor or administrator of an estate is the person who is responsible for the administra­tion of the estate. They must identify and evaluate the assets. They must identify and pay all bills.  They are re­sponsible for selling the assets that need to be sold and all tax filings for the decedant and the estate. Finally, the executor distributes the as­sets in accordance with the terms of the will or state law if there is no will.

The executor/administrator also agrees to:

  • Give notice of the admission of the will to the heirs and beneficiaries
  • Make and file an inventory with the Probate Court
  • Deposit all funds in an estate account and to keep all records
  • Keep estate funds separate
  • Invest all funds in a lawful manner
  • Make and file a distributive and final account with the Probate Court
  • File all tax documents required by law
  • Maintain insurance on the estate assets
  • Obey all Court orders