One Vital Step in Your Estate Planning Process
One of the most overlooked parts of estate planning isn’t preparing the documents themselves, it’s preparing the people named in them.
We’ve seen a few situations recently where someone passed away having carefully named an executor (or trustee) but never told that person they were chosen. The individual didn’t even know they had a role in executing the estate until they were contacted after the death. As you can imagine, that creates confusion, delays, and added stress during an already difficult time.
Choosing the right person is important. Preparing them is just as critical.
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Being an executor or trustee isn’t just an honorary title—it’s a real job with legal and financial responsibilities.
That person may need to:
- Locate and manage assets
- Pay debts and taxes
- Distribute assets according to your wishes
- Communicate with beneficiaries
- Potentially manage a trust over time
If they’re caught off guard, the process can quickly become overwhelming. Even highly capable people can struggle if they don’t know where to start or what’s expected of them.
Worse, if the person is unwilling or unable to serve, it can lead to court involvement, delays, or family tension.
The Risk of Silence
Not having a conversation ahead of time can lead to a few avoidable problems:
- Surprise and stress: Learning about the role after a death can feel like being handed a complex job with no training. One client described it as being handed a huge wad of tangled jewelry.
- Delays in settling the estate: Time is lost while the executor figures out what to do or gathers information.
- Unintended conflict: Family members may have different expectations, especially if communication wasn’t clear.
- The wrong fit: The person you chose years ago may no longer be the best—or willing—candidate today.
How to Approach the Conversation
Bringing this up might feel uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be complicated or heavy. A straightforward, respectful conversation goes a long way.
Here are a few practical tips:
1. Start simple and direct
Let them know you’ve named (or are considering naming) them as executor or trustee. You don’t need a long preamble—clarity is helpful.
2. Ask for their consent
This is key. Give them the opportunity to say yes—or no. Not everyone is comfortable taking on this responsibility, and that’s okay.
3. Explain what the role involves
You don’t need to go into legal detail, but a high-level overview helps set expectations. Let them know whether it’s a one-time responsibility (like settling an estate) or an ongoing one (like managing a trust).
4. Share where things are
Make sure they know where to find:
- Your will or trust documents
- Account information
- Contact details for your attorney, financial advisor, and CPA
Even a simple list can save hours of stress later.
5. Revisit the conversation over time
Life changes. Relationships change. The person you chose years ago may move, become busier, or have different circumstances. It’s worth checking in periodically.
A Thoughtful Step That Makes a Big Difference
Estate planning is about more than distributing assets—it’s about making things easier for the people you care about.
Taking the time to prepare your executor or trustee is a small step that can have a big impact. It reduces uncertainty, prevents unnecessary complications, and helps ensure your wishes are carried out smoothly.
If you’re not sure how to start that conversation—or want to make sure your overall plan is aligned—we’re always happy to help guide you through it.
Cetera Advisors LLC exclusively provides investment products and services through its representatives. Although Cetera does not provide tax or legal advice, or supervise tax, accounting or legal services, Cetera representatives may offer these services through their independent outside business. This information is not intended as tax or legal advice.