If you’ve been appointed as an executor and you’re feeling like the task is too much for you, don’t worry – it’s not that things are happening to you unsuccessfully or anything; this has never been something that people are coached to do (and usually they’re trying to do it whilst grieving). The point is not to do everything at once.
1) Pause, put the fundamentals in place
Collect what you can before making calls:
The will (and any codicils)
Death certificate (get multiple copies)
A notebook or even a basic spreadsheet to keep an eye on your tasks.
2) Share the news with appropriate people first
Focus on the organisations that plug the holes:
Banks and building societies (contact the bereavement team)
Utility companies and home insurance (specifically)
Where this is applicable, the pension providers/employers.
3) Secure property and paperwork
If the situation involves a house, ensure it is safe. Move valuable or important documents properly. This prevents problems later.
4) Create a “Now/Soon/Later” list
Due to the nature of every task being urgent, they cause executives stress and overwhelm. Try this:
Now: notify banks, make arrangements for the property you own, and address the funeral bill
Soon: listing assets and liabilities, valuations; applying for a grant of probate where required. For Probate Leicester, contact //beesandco.com/our-services/probate/leicester/
Later: settling bills, distribution of the estate, and final accounts.
5) DIY less when you can
You can get help with:
Probate applications
Property sales
Tax forms and estate accounts
Even when you do some work yourself, a fixed-fee probate service or solicitor can help lift the pressure.
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