When you appoint someone the executor over your New Jersey estate, you give that party several specific responsibilities. Typically, it is the executor’s job to close out financial accounts, inventory assets and notify and distribute those assets to your intended beneficiaries. In other words, there are many steps involved in serving as someone’s executor, and there are certain things you might do to make this individual’s job easier.
Per AARP, taking the following three steps has the potential to make your executor’s job easier.
1. Compile a list of who to notify
While an executor must let your beneficiaries know about your passing, there are other individuals or entities who may need a heads-up when this happens. For example, if you belong to any clubs or professional organizations, you may want to leave their contact information with your executor.
2. Tell your executor what should remain private
You may also want your executor to know about any secrets you may have that you wish to keep private. For example, if you have photos, letters or other private belongings you do not want others to find out about, consider letting your executor know where to find them and how to dispose of them.
3. Let your executor know where to find your will
Make sure your New Jersey executor also knows where to find the original copy of your will that you drafted. If you keep it online, make sure your executor knows how to gain access to it.
The more information and guidance you give your executor, the better the chances of him or her seeing to it that your final wishes ultimately come to fruition.