It is a very common question whether an Executor can be a Beneficiary of a Will and it is also a common misconception that an Executor cannot be a Beneficiary of a Will. An Executor can actually be a Beneficiary of a Will and in reality often the main Beneficiary of the Estate is also one of the Executors.
An Executor is the legal term referring to a person named in the Will who will have the responsibility of carrying out the terms of the Will and administration of the Estate. Executors do not have to agree to be the Executors of your Will however it is a good practice to ask an Executor whether they will be happy to deal with your Estate so that it does not come as a surprise to them when you pass away. In any case on your death Executors can decline to act as your Executors if they want to.
Whether your Beneficiaries will also be the Executors of your Will or not it is very important to make sure that neither Executors nor Beneficiaries witness your Will otherwise they will disinherit themselves.
If you have any queries about making a Will please contact a member of our Wills, Life Planning and Probate team who will be happy to assist. Call 01206 700113 or email [email protected].