Being an executor

Being an executor or administrator can be demanding and complex.

You need a good understanding of the law, accounting and taxes. You may need to get professional advice which can add expenses to the estate.

Executor duties can include all of the following:

• getting permission from the Supreme Court to deal with the estate, known as a grant of representation - read more about taking control of an estate
• finding the people who will receive something from the estate, also known as beneficiaries, and keeping them informed of progress
• making sure beneficiaries receive what is given to them
• making sure valuables and property are locked, and any insurance policies are still being paid
• finding out what debts are owed, including taxes.

For information about tax and superannuation relating to estates go to the Australian Taxation Office website.