Executors are also known as “personal representatives.” An executor is a person assigned to carry out the decedent’s wishes.
If the decedent’s estate was planned through a will, the executor would offer the document to the court for probate. An executor should also:
Take steps to protect the estate’s assets Appropriately distribute property to the decedent’s beneficiaries Pay debts, fees, and taxes associated with the estate
Executors are named by the individual when they plan their estate. Because the named executor has the right to refuse the job, it is vital to name an alternate personal representative.