Why This Matters
Serving as an executor is both an honor and a heavy responsibility. At Roth Elder Law, we know that estate administration can be complex, involving legal deadlines, financial obligations, and family dynamics. Our goal is to help you navigate this process with confidence, avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring that your loved one’s legacy is honored.

When you’re tasked with administering an estate, even a small oversight can have big consequences. Here are the most common pitfalls and how you can steer clear of them:

1. Missing Critical Deadlines

Every step in estate administration comes with its own deadlines—from filing the will with the court to paying taxes and notifying creditors. Missing these dates can lead to delays, penalties, or even legal complications.
Our Advice:
Keep a detailed calendar or, better yet, work with an experienced professional to ensure that nothing slips through the cracks.

2. Failing to Protect Estate Assets

One of the first tasks for an executor is to secure all estate assets—whether it’s real estate, valuable personal property, or financial accounts. Delays in protecting these assets can lead to loss or mismanagement.
Our Advice:
Immediately take inventory of all assets and secure them appropriately. Our team can help you develop a systematic plan to help you safeguard the estate’s value.

3. Mishandling Debts and Taxes

Before any distributions are made to beneficiaries, all debts and taxes must be addressed. If you distribute assets too soon or miscalculate the order of payments, you could become personally liable.
Our Advice:
Understand the proper hierarchy for paying debts and taxes. With our dual expertise as both attorneys and CPAs, we can ensure that the financial obligations are managed correctly.

4. Poor Communication with Beneficiaries

A lack of transparent communication can breed mistrust and conflict. While you don’t have to share every detail, keeping beneficiaries informed about the process can prevent misunderstandings and disputes.
Our Advice:
Establish regular updates and clear lines of communication. We can guide you on how much to share and when, ensuring that everyone stays in the loop.

5. Rushing Asset Distribution

Distributing assets prematurely might seem like a kind gesture, but it can backfire if unexpected debts or tax issues arise later.
Our Advice:
Hold off on distributing inheritances until all liabilities are settled. This careful approach protects both the estate and your personal liability.

Let Us Guide You Through Estate Administration

Navigating the responsibilities of an executor isn’t easy—but you don’t have to do it alone. At Roth Elder Law, we bring over 25 years of combined legal and financial expertise to every case. We’re here to ensure that each step is handled correctly, protecting you from potential pitfalls and honoring the legacy of your loved one.

Call us today at 607-962-6162 or fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment. Let’s work together to make estate administration as smooth and stress-free as possible.