What is an executor?

They are the people responsible for the probate process for estates where there is a properly-executed will.

The word is pronounced executor (as in executive) not executor (as in execute).

Appointed by a will

Executors are appointed by a will.

They are usually named near the top of the will, and may also be known as "trustees".

No will

If there is no will, there are no executors. The people responsible are called administrators.

Executors and administrators are the two types of personal representatives. The names are different but the responsibilities are largely the same.

A will but no executors

In the unlikely event that no executors have been named in the will, or if there are executors listed but none is willing or able to act, one or more of the residuary beneficiaries can step forward and administer the estate.

In this case, they are called administrators, not executors.

See our guide “When can a residuary beneficiary administer an estate?”.