Considerations When Choosing an Executor

  • The Executor: The health, age, and willingness of the Executor
  • Does the Executor have time and working knowledge? Estate settlements can take several months. The Executor may need to work with lawyers, accountants, realtors, and other professionals
  • Where does the Executor live?  If the Executor lives out of province, there can be logistical and tax complications
  • Emotional Considerations: During a time of grieving, will the Executor have the emotional stability to take on the task
  • The Beneficiaries: Are there lingering or contentious issues between family members and loved ones? If so, the Executor must objectively and impartially manage those relationships

Depending on the complexity of the estate, you can choose to appoint a corporate executor, for example a trust company will have the experience and expertise to professionally manage the estate settlement as per your will and legal documents