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A guide to choosing the executor of your estate

On Behalf of | Oct 6, 2022 | Estate Planning |

It’s natural to want to do the right thing by your family, but the last thing on your mind is planning for your death. However, we all have to go at some point, and you won’t take your assets with you. For these reasons, it’s crucial that you choose an executor for your estate.

After your death, the executor will step into your shoes to protect and administer the estate until all legal issues are settled, so it’s important that you choose your executor carefully. So, who should you choose as an executor of your estate?

A person who is available and responsible

The right executor should know that it can take months or years to complete their role successfully. Their primary roles will be to handle your finances, notify everyone, including creditors, of your passing away, and represent your estate in court if necessary. Therefore, while you may have family members you trust, not everyone is suitable for this role.

A person who meets all basic Kentucky executor requirement

A qualified executor must be above the age of 18 and be of sound mind. While minors cannot serve as executors, you can name a young person and only allow them to serve as executors after attaining a certain age. This is important because most 18-year-olds aren’t prepared to handle such an important task. 

A young and healthy person

If you made your estate plans when you were younger, you most likely included your parents as your executors. However, you may want to rethink this decision, especially if your parents are older. Remember that your executor will have to carry out your wishes and handle all legal affairs months or years after your passing. Therefore, it’s wise to choose an executor who is younger and in good health.

With time and sound advice, it’s possible to choose a responsible, qualified, and dependable executor to handle your estate and ensure your wishes are respected.