Read and fully understand the will and any trusts

Even if you have read the will prior to the death of the will writer, a thorough review of it immediately after the will writer’s death can help ensure that you are meeting their wishes as it relates to their funeral. Letting other family members know that you have done so also will give them comfort that the deceased’s wishes are being carried out as it relates to the funeral and burial or cremation.

Take the time to understand each term in the will and what it means. Our glossary can help. Legal documents can be dry and cumbersome. In spite of that, you need to have a working understanding of the will to be able to fulfill your executor duties.