What is an executor of a will in the UK — duties, who to choose and fees
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Quick answer: An executor is the person named in your [will](swiftwill.co.uk*) to collect your estate, pay debts and tax, and distribute what is left. Name one to four willing adults — more than one if you have under-18 beneficiaries or a trust.
Choosing executors is one of the most practical parts of making a will. Friends and relatives do most of the work unpaid; banks and solicitors can act for a fee. This guide covers what the job involves, who to appoint, and how to name them when you [make a will online](swiftwill.co.uk*) or with a solicitor.
What executors actually do
Executors find the original will, protect property, apply for a grant of probate when banks or land registries require it, collect money owed to the estate, pay debts, Inheritance Tax if due, and funeral and administration expenses, then transfer gifts and the residue to the people named in the will.
The role can take months on a typical estate. Pick people who are organised with paperwork and likely to outlive you. Tell them where the wet-ink will is stored.
Who to choose
Common choices are a spouse or partner, adult children, trusted friends, or a solicitor or accountant. Naming two reduces the risk that illness or death leaves nobody able to act. You can name substitutes if the first choice cannot serve.
Professional executors charge the estate — often a percentage of the estate or an hourly rate. Many people name family as first choice and a solicitor only as backup. Always get agreement before you sign.
How to name executors in your will
When you [make a will online](swiftwill.co.uk*) with SwiftWill (from around £35 single or £55 [mirror wills](swiftwill.co.uk/mirror-wills*)), the questionnaire asks for executor names and backups. Print the PDF and [sign the will](swiftwill.co.uk/how-to-sign-a-will*) with two independent adult witnesses.
If circumstances change — divorce, a death, or a falling-out — make a new will that revokes the old one rather than scribbling on the original. Official guidance on making a will: www.gov.uk/make-will
Executors vs attorneys (LPA)
A Lasting Power of Attorney acts while you are alive if you lose capacity. An executor acts after death under the will. They are different roles — you usually need both. See our LPA vs will answer for the split.
Common questions
Can an executor also inherit?
Yes. Many wills name the main beneficiary as executor. They must still follow the will and probate duties for the whole estate.
What if my executor dies before me?
Surviving co-executors can usually continue. If none remain, a substitute named in the will or a court-appointed administrator steps in — which is why backups matter.
Do executors get paid?
Family and friends usually act unpaid (they can reclaim proper expenses). Professional executors charge fees from the estate under the will or their terms of business.
Where do I start if I have not made a will yet?
List assets and who should inherit, then [make a will](swiftwill.co.uk*) that names executors. GOV.UK overview: www.gov.uk/make-will