How to Choose an Executor for your Will

What does an executor do?
1. An executor’s role is to file your will with the court, submit tax returns, clear probate, pay off your debts, close accounts, and make sure remaining assets are distributed as specified by your will.
2. Tip: Some assets like retirement accounts & life insurance are distributed based on the beneficiary on the account, not what is designated in the will.
Why do you need an executor of your will?
1. If you die without a will, the court in your state decides what happens to your estate. You have no control as to who gets your wealth, children under 18, items, property, and other assets.
Qualifications of an executor in Delaware
1. Must be at least 18 years old.
2. Be of sound mind.
3. Want an out-of-state executor? Non-Delaware residents must file an irrevocable power of attorney appointing the register of wills as agents to accept the legal papers.
How to choose an executor
1. Who you can select:
  1. Family-ie: spouse, adult child, sibling, parent.
  2. Professional like an attorney, accountant, or trust company/department
2. If you choose someone from your personal life, make sure they are honest and willing to carry out your wishes. Make your expectations of this role clear to them before they decide.
Other things to consider
1. Naming co-executors
  1. Naming a co-executor such as an attorney will help ensure that decisions are handled appropriately.
  2. Can help share the responsibilities of being an executor.
2. Things to consider-will they get along? Are they fair?
3. Contingency executor-if something happens to your executor, there is a backup.
4. Executors earn a fee of 2% of the probate estate for their work.
5. After major life events such as divorce, marriage, children, make sure the person you named still makes sense for you.

1	Key Concept Key Concept Text <p>An estate executor's role includes so many responsibilities from paying off debts, distributing remaining assets as desired, filing your will with the court, and more. Being an estate executor is not something that should be taken lightly and requires an individual who has full capacity to carry out all duties.</p> Key Points to Cover
2	Key Concept Key Concept Text <p>Without an executor, the future of your estate falls into the hands of the state's court. Your wishes may not be carried out as you wanted them to as a result. Choosing an executor will ensure your legacy is distributed as specified.</p> Key Points to Cover
3	Key Concept Key Concept Text <p>In Delaware, an executor must be at least 18 years of age and be of sound mind.</p> Key Points to Cover
4	Key Concept Key Concept Text <p>It's common to select a family member or close friend as your estate's executor. However, if this decision will cause strife amongst loved ones, you may want to consider choosing a professional such as an attorney to serve as your executor. When making an important decision, there are a few key points to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure the person is fully able to carry out all the necessary duties. This includes being able to understand your wishes and distribute assets properly. It's best to select someone who is trustworthy and level-headed because it's easy to have emotions involved in this role.</p> Key Points to Cover
5	Key Concept Key Concept Text <p>Naming a co-executor, such as an attorney will help ensure that decisions are handled appropriately. In addition, co-executors can share the responsibilities of executor. When choosing loved ones as co-executors, keep in mind that these individuals need to be able to get along and put personal feelings aside.</p> Key Points to Cover
1	Key Concept Key Concept Text Key Points to Cover

112 S. French Street Suite 105A, Wilmington, DE 19801

37458 Oyster House Rd, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

Mailing Address: PO Box 1601 Hockessin, DE 19707

(302) PLANNER

Talk to an Advisor

401k Login

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

ADV Part III

© 2025 Blue Rock Financial Group. All rights reserved.

Designed by: MC Creative Group