Fiduciary Duty

• An executor does not need to be a financial or legal expert, but does have a fiduciary duty, which requires him act on behalf of someone else in good faith. An executor can hire a lawyer or accountant to locate copies of the will, draft a death certificate and deal with legal and financial matters.
  
  

Protection

• The executor must ensure that the decedent's property is protected until distribution. For example, if the decedent has left behind a house, it must be insured, maintained and protected. For example, locks may need to be changed for security. Some belongings may be best protected in a safe deposit box.
  
  

Documentation and Notification

• The executor must gather documents such as life insurance policies, financial statements and income tax returns to execute the will. An executor may need to contact companies with which the decedent may have had a financial link, such as insurance companies, utilities, banks and government agencies.
  
  

Payments

• The executor is responsible for paying, with the estate's funds, funeral and other expenses, including personal debts. Debts may include credit cards, utilities, taxes, loans, leases, mortgages and alimony.
  
  

Distribution of Assets

• What remains of the estate is distribute according to the will. The executor notifies beneficiaries of their bequest, and depending on the terms of the will, distributes the assets.