Serving as an executor of an estate in Ohio is both an honor and a legal responsibility. Before agreeing to take on this role, it’s important to understand what’s expected of you. At Singler Law LLC, we provide trusted legal assistance to the Cincinnati public, helping clients navigate probate with clarity and confidence.

What Is an Executor?

An executor—also called a “personal representative”—is the person appointed to carry out the terms of a will after someone passes away. This includes gathering the deceased’s assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property to beneficiaries.

Key Duties of an Executor in Ohio

Here’s a breakdown of the most common responsibilities executors must handle in Ohio:

1. Filing the Will

The executor must file the will with the probate court in the county where the decedent lived. This initiates the probate process.

2. Inventorying Assets

The executor must locate and list all of the deceased’s assets, including bank accounts, real estate, personal belongings, and investments. Ohio law requires this inventory to be submitted to the court, usually within three months of appointment.

3. Paying Debts and Taxes

Before any assets are distributed, the estate’s debts—including funeral costs, credit card balances, and final income taxes—must be paid. This can require negotiating with creditors and ensuring proper documentation.

4. Managing the Estate

Until the estate is settled, the executor must responsibly manage all estate property. This might include maintaining real estate, collecting rents, or safeguarding valuables.

5. Distributing Assets

Once the court approves the final accounting and all debts are paid, the executor distributes the remaining assets to the heirs according to the will.

6. Closing the Estate

The final step is filing a report with the probate court that shows all transactions were completed properly. After approval, the estate is closed.

Things to Consider Before Accepting the Role

Being an executor can take several months—or even over a year—depending on the complexity of the estate. You can be held legally accountable if mistakes are made, especially when handling money or failing to meet deadlines.

If you are considering serving as an executor, you are not alone. At Singler Law LLC, we can help guide you through the probate process and ensure every step is handled properly and efficiently.