The Executor's Guide

The definitive guide to serving as an executor, trustee, or estate representative

If you need to wrap up the affairs of a loved one who has died, you might feel overwhelmed--especially when you're grieving. But you can do it, and this book will show you how.

The Executor's Guide provides a clear road map through an unfamiliar land of legal procedures and terminology. You'll learn what to do right away and what can wait. In plain language, this book explains:

• The Critical First Steps: The legal and practical steps to take in the first days and weeks after a death.


• Managing Paperwork: How to deal with the mounds of paperwork from life insurance, Social Security, veterans' benefits, final paychecks, transferring accounts, and death announcements.


• Interpreting Wills and Understanding Intestacy: Reading, understanding, and following the directions in a will -and figuring out what to do if your loved one passed away without a will.


• Avoiding Probate: How to determine if the estate qualifies for simplified "small estate" procedures that can save your family thousands of dollars and months of delays.


• Filing Final Taxes: Handle the estate's final income and estate taxes.


• Managing Assets & Paying Bills: From opening an estate's bank account to dealing with creditors and paying bills.


• Handling Trusts: Step-by-step guidance on administering a stand-alone living trust and trusts created by a will.


• Working with Professionals: Know when you need help from a lawyer, appraiser, or financial advisor. Understand how to work with these professionals and keep costs down.

The fully updated 11th edition features revised state-specific charts that detail each state's probate thresholds, tax rules, and legal requirements.*

Includes downloadable worksheets. Get access to customizable digital checklists, asset inventory sheets, and executor log templates to keep your records organized from day one.

* This book does not cover Louisiana law.