Choosing an executor is one of the most important decisions you'll make when preparing your will — and one of the most commonly underestimated.
Most people name a spouse, an adult child, or a trusted friend without thinking carefully about what the role actually involves. The result can be an overwhelmed executor struggling with a job they weren't prepared for — at the worst possible time.
Here's what an executor actually does, what to look for, and how to make the right choice.
What Does an Executor Do?
An executor is responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will. In practice, this means:
- Locating your original will and applying for probate (court authorisation to deal with the estate)
- Notifying banks, government agencies, superannuation funds, and insurers of your death
- Identifying and valuing all assets and liabilities
- Paying debts, taxes, and funeral expenses from estate funds
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries as directed by the will
- Managing estate assets during the administration period (which can take 6–18 months or longer)
- Dealing with any disputes between beneficiaries
- Keeping accurate records and accounts
It is a legal role with real responsibilities and personal liability. An executor who distributes assets incorrectly can be personally liable to beneficiaries.
What Makes a Good Executor?
The best executor is not necessarily the person closest to you emotionally — it's the person best equipped to handle the task. Look for someone who is:
- Organised and methodical — there's a lot of paperwork and follow-up involved
- Financially literate — they'll be managing assets and accounts
- Available — estate administration is time-consuming; a very busy person may struggle
- Able to remain impartial — especially important in blended families or where there may be tension between beneficiaries
- Willing to take on the role — always ask before naming someone
- Younger or similar age to you — they need to outlive you
- Based in Australia — cross-border estate administration is significantly more complex
Can You Name More Than One Executor?
Yes — and this is often sensible. Co-executors can share the workload, and naming a backup executor ensures someone can act if your primary executor dies before you, or is unable or unwilling to act when the time comes.
However, be aware that co-executors must act jointly on most decisions — which can slow things down if they disagree. If you name multiple executors, choose people who will work well together under pressure.
Should You Name a Professional Executor?
For complex estates — large asset bases, business interests, blended families, or potential disputes — a professional executor (a solicitor or trustee company) can be worth considering. Professionals bring experience, objectivity, and the ability to handle difficult situations without the emotional weight that family members carry.
Professional executors charge fees (typically a percentage of the estate), but in complex situations, the cost is often justified. You can also name a professional as a co-executor alongside a family member.
Tell Your Executor in Advance
Your executor should never be surprised by their appointment. Talk to them before you name them in your will — explain what's involved, confirm they're willing, and give them a sense of your estate. An executor who doesn't know they've been appointed, or who doesn't know where to find your will, is an executor who can't do their job.
Tell your executor:
- Where your original will is stored
- Where your important documents are (bank accounts, super, insurance, property)
- Who your solicitor, accountant, and financial advisor are
- What your general wishes are, beyond what's in the will
Custodium Vault makes this straightforward — store all your documents in one secure place and give your executor controlled access so they know exactly where everything is when they need it. See our plans.
Review Your Executor Appointment Regularly
Life changes. Your executor might predecease you, become ill, move overseas, or fall out with your family. Review your executor appointment at least every few years, and after any major life change.
When you review your will with your estate planning attorney, always revisit the executor appointment as part of that conversation.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right executor is just as important as choosing the right beneficiaries. Take the time to think carefully about who is genuinely best placed to handle the role — not just who is closest to you.
If you're ready to prepare or update your will, our estate planning team can guide you through every decision — including who to appoint as your executor. Request a confidential consultation today.