A person named in a will as the executor of the estate has a significant responsibility. It is important for an executor to know what he or she must do, and - just as important - what not to do.

In New York State, an executor's fiduciary responsibility to: have the last Will and testament probated; collect the decedent's assets that pass under the Will (not including joint property, insurance benefits and other assets that pass to others directly); pay debts of the estate, including funeral expenses; pay any taxes the estate owes; and distribute the remaining assets in accordance with the terms of the Will. During the estate administration process, which can take anywhere from several months to several years, the executor is also responsible for managing and investing the estate's assets in accordance with state law... Click here to read more.