What is the role of an executor?

An executor manages the assets of your estate. In the Will, you name a primary and secondary executor. To qualify as an executor in North Carolina, the individual must be a resident of the state, 18 years old, competent, not a convicted felon and be able to assume the responsibilities of the role. If the named executor is not a resident of North Carolina then they may hire an agent who is located in the state to handle their responsibilities. The executor has many responsibilities to the estate, including but not limited to the following: filing a petition to probate the Will, locating and managing the assets of the estate, paying any state and federal taxes, paying any existing medical bills and other debts of the estate, distributing any specific bequests, and distributing the remainder of the estate to beneficiaries. For detailed information about the duties of an Executor see North Carolina Judicial Court Form 850.