Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.
Brené Brown
Navigating Your
Role as an Estate Trustee
Being named an Estate Trustee can feel like a heavy responsibility. Seeking help isn’t giving up—it’s a practical and expected choice that honours the trust placed in you while prioritizing your well-being.
From offering tools and guidance to managing the entire process on your behalf, we ensure the estate is handled with care and precision.
Executor
support on your terms
Here’s what we offer:
- Clarity & Guidance: Strategies, resources, and expert advice to help you navigate your role as an executor.
- Emotional Support: A safe, open space to ask questions and manage challenges during this difficult time.
- Accountability & Transparency: Assistance in managing the estate responsibly and effectively.
- Full-Service Management: Prefer to step back? We can handle the entire process for you, ensuring everything is managed with care and precision.
Explore executor resources
Learn more about executor responsibilities, strategies, and common pitfalls through our blog. Equip yourself with the insights you need to approach this work with confidence.
Your executor
experience
It’s natural to feel uncertain about an unfamiliar role. Many share your questions, and we’re here to help—providing knowledge and support to guide informed decisions, starting with common concerns.
What are the first steps I need to take as an Executor?
If you’ve never acted as an Executor, this is likely your first question—and it’s a good one. A resource like this blog can help you feel more prepared to understand your responsibilities and how to get started.
It’s also important to give yourself space to ask questions and approach the role in a way that works for you. You’re allowed to make the job fit your needs while honouring the trust placed in you.
If the estate owes money for bills, do I have to use my own money?
No, Executors are not required to pay estate expenses out of their own pocket. With proper documentation, most financial institutions will release funds from the deceased’s bank accounts to cover bills and expenses, even if the accounts are “frozen.”
While it may seem easier to pay out of your own funds, it’s best to avoid this when possible. If you do cover expenses, be sure to keep detailed records and receipts. You’re entitled to full reimbursement later.
Do I need to use the services of the lawyer or law firm that prepared or stored the Will?
No, you can choose a service provider that feels right for you. Just because a lawyer prepared the Will doesn’t mean they are the best fit for your needs. Choose someone you trust to provide the support and services you want as an Executor.
How can I make this process easier?
You are likely experiencing a significant loss and grief while also carrying the weight of legal responsibility—acknowledge it. Prioritize your well-being alongside the estate’s needs. A legal coach can guide you through the process, help you manage responsibilities, and reduce unnecessary stress while ensuring the estate is handled effectively.
KEEP YOUR LIFE FRONT OF MIND
Life is hectic, but a little reminder to live purposefully can go a long way. Our newsletter offers simple ideas to help you refocus.