Can you name anyone as an executor?

One of the most important aspects of estate planning is naming someone to be the executor of your will. In Ohio, an executor must be at least 18 years old and mentally competent. Unless you waive the requirement for your executor to obtain a bond from an insurance company, you must name someone who has a good credit history and no criminal record. Overall, one of the most important aspects of an executor is that he or she is someone you trust to follow the instructions in your will.

FindLaw provides advice on how to choose an executor. If your will is fairly straightforward, your executor may not need to have any specific legal knowledge or experience. For a simple will, you may decide to name your spouse, child or sibling as your executor provided he or she meets the Ohio requirements.

Before making your choice of executor official by naming him or her in your will, you may want to talk to the person and ensure he or she is willing to take on the responsibility. Some of the tasks your executor may handle include maintaining or selling your home, distributing your assets, paying bills and filing taxes on your estate. Even if your will is simple, the tasks of an executor often require a significant amount of time and administrative work. It may be helpful to name an alternative executor in your will. If your initial executor chooses not to take on the role, the responsibilities may fall to the alternate person you choose.

This general information on wills and executors is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.