When someone close to us passes away, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the loss and by all the details of managing their affairs. Some issues that demand attention right away include funeral arrangements, contacting family and locating the Will. Locating the Will is important as it may contain funeral wishes and it appoints someone, the Executor, to be responsible for the management of the Estate. If you do not know where the original Will was kept, you can do a search of the B.C. Wills Registry through the Vital Statistics Agency.

What does it mean that I was appointed “Executor”?
If you have been appointed Executor you must decide if you are up to the task before you begin to meddle with the Estate’s assets and debts, otherwise you will not be allowed to back out and you must see things through to their completion. If you decide to act, it is helpful to keep a diary of everything that you do as Executor; any expenses incurred, debts paid, any important items located, and the names and contact information of people you speak with about the Estate. It is important to stay organized, as one of your duties is to be able account for all assets, debts, expenses and income of the Estate. Continue reading →