A Checklist for Executors: From Legal Docs to Last Wishes

Becoming an executor might feel like an honour — and it is — but it’s also a serious responsibility. You’re expected to carry out someone’s final wishes, navigate legal processes, and act as the go-between for grieving family members, institutions, and the courts. It can be overwhelming, especially when emotions are high and instructions are unclear.

It can be overwhelming — and the data backs that up.

According to a survey by EstateExec, the average estate takes over 500 hours to settle, often stretching across 16 months or more.

The biggest delays? Executors feeling unprepared, lacking guidance, or struggling to locate documents and assets.

At Trusty, we’ve spoken with countless families and professionals who agree: executors don’t just need access to documents — they need context, clarity, and structure. That’s why we’ve created this simple checklist to help.

This guide is for anyone who’s been named an executor, whether you’re stepping into the role soon or planning ahead.

✅ Executor Checklist: What to Do When the Time Comes

1. Locate the Will and Supporting Documents

Identify the most recent signed version of the Will. Find supporting documents like powers of attorney, Letters of Wishes, funeral directives, and trust agreements. Confirm where the Will is stored (e.g., lawyer, safe, safety deposit box).

2. Get Official Copies of the Death Certificate

You’ll need multiple copies to deal with banks, insurance, government agencies, etc.

3. Apply for Probate (If Required)

File the Will with the appropriate probate court to validate the Will and receive authority to act.

4. Notify Key Parties

Contact beneficiaries, banks, insurance providers, government agencies, and utilities.

5. Secure and Review All Assets

Take inventory of bank accounts, real estate, valuables, business interests, and digital assets.

6. Pay Outstanding Debts and File Taxes

Settle liabilities and file final personal and estate tax returns.

7. Distribute the Estate

Follow the Will’s instructions and provide transparency throughout the process.

8. Handle Sentimental Guidance with Care

If there’s a Letter of Wishes or video messages, share them thoughtfully to reduce misinterpretation or tension.

Trusty Makes It Easier to Carry It All Out

Trusty isn’t a legal service, but it’s designed to support you through the emotional and logistical complexity of being an executor. Think of it as your digital companion for the moments where clarity matters most.

Here’s how Trusty helps with key parts of the process:

• Step 1 – Locating the Will: The person creating the Will can log where it’s stored and who to contact to retrieve it. No more confusion about which lawyer or what version is valid.
• Step 5 – Tracking Assets: Trusty gives executors a clear, consolidated list of what exists — including homes, accounts, collectibles, and storage locations — often with appraisals and attached documents.
• Step 8 – Understanding Intentions: Trusty goes beyond the legal formality by storing Letters of Wishes and heartfelt video messages that explain decisions and minimize misinterpretation.
• Steps 4, 7 & 8 – Reducing Conflict: When you can show beneficiaries the full picture — not just who gets what, but why — it’s far easier to avoid disputes and delays.

Whether you’re preparing for this role or naming someone else to carry it out, this checklist — and tools like Trusty — help ensure the person in charge can honour your wishes with confidence.