Ten Steps to Being an Exector

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There are ten steps the executor may take when the person dies. The order of the steps will depend on the situation.

1. Locate and read the Will.[edit]

The Will may have instructions about the person’s wishes for organ donation, burial or cremation, and/or funeral or memorial service. When you agree to act as an executor, make sure you have an up-to-date copy of the Will. Keep it in a safe place where you can find it easily. Keep a written record of all your activity as executor. Keep all receipts and financial records of the estate.

Many people keep the original Will in a safety deposit box. Try to find the keys and tell the manager of the financial institution that you are the executor and are looking for the original Will. If you can’t find the key, the box can be drilled open for a charge. Some people leave the Will with their lawyer or Notary Public.

You can also check with the Wills Registry at Vital Statistics. Vital Statistics can check to see if the Will was registered and where the original Will may be located. You must always check the Wills Registry when you are applying for probate. Vital Statistics will send you a formal reply that you need for probate.

Division of Vital Statistics Victoria 1.250.952.2681
Tel.: 604.660.2937
Outside the Lower Mainland - 1.800.663.8328
www.vs.gov.bc.ca

If you can’t find the Will, you cannot proceed with probate. You must apply for a “grant of administration” to become the administrator rather than the executor. The procedures are similar to those for probate, and you can use a self-help manual.