Difference between revisions of "Choosing an Executor"

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Estates that involve a small amount of money (under $25,000) may not need to go through probate. It’s up to the outside parties who hold your assets (such as a bank) whether they’ll give the executor those assets without a grant.
Estates that involve a small amount of money (under $25,000) may not need to go through probate. It’s up to the outside parties who hold your assets (such as a bank) whether they’ll give the executor those assets without a grant.


== What are the executor's responsibilities? ==
== What to consider when choosing your executor ==


The [[Being an Executor|role of executor]] usually involves paying any outstanding debts, applying for the Canada Pension Plan death benefit, selling some assets, preparing the final tax return, and distributing the estate. How much time this takes depends on how complicated your affairs are.
Most people ask a family member or close friend to be their executor. You can also ask a lawyer, a '''notary public''', a private trust company, or the Public Guardian and Trustee.


Your executor may need to [[Probating the Will|'''probate''' the will]]. Probate is a legal procedure that confirms the will is legally valid. In the probate process, the executor submits special forms and the will to court. If everything is in order, the court issues a grant of probate.
Important qualities to look for when choosing an executor include:
 
* '''Willingness''': The person you’re thinking of appointing should confirm that they’re willing to take on the job.
Some estates that involve only a small amount of money (under $25,000) may not need to go through probate. It is up to the third parties who hold your assets whether they will give the executor those assets without probate.
* '''Trust and familiarity''': An executor should be someone you trust to carry out your wishes. It’s best if they’re familiar with your situation.
* '''Time and ability''': Being an executor takes time, energy, and attention to detail. The job will be more demanding if your affairs are complicated — for example, if you have a lot of investments or debts, or if the will includes a '''trust'''. It helps if the person you choose is organized and a good communicator.


== Who should you choose to be your executor? ==
== Who should you choose to be your executor? ==
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