What Documents Do Executors Need?

Acting as an executor can involve a significant amount of paperwork. One of the first challenges many executors face is locating and organising important documents relating to the person who has died and their estate.

Having the right documents available can make it easier to register the death, apply for probate and administer the estate.

The Will

The will is one of the most important documents an executor will need.

It may include:

• The names of the executors

• Funeral wishes

• Details of beneficiaries

• Instructions regarding the estate

If the original will cannot be located, additional legal steps may be required.

Death Certificates

Executors will often need multiple certified copies of the death certificate.

These may be requested by:

• Banks

• Pension providers

• Insurance companies

• Investment companies

• Utility providers

It is often helpful to order several copies when registering the death.

Identification Documents

The executor may need to locate identification documents relating to the deceased, including:

• Passport

• Driving licence

• Birth certificate

• Marriage or civil partnership certificate

These documents may be required when dealing with financial institutions or legal matters.

Financial Documents

Executors should try to gather information about all financial assets and liabilities.

This may include:

• Bank account statements

• Savings account details

• Investment statements

• Pension information

• Mortgage documents

• Loan agreements

• Credit card statements

Having a complete picture of the estate is important before assets can be distributed.

Property Documents

If the deceased owned property, useful documents may include:

• Title deeds

• Mortgage statements

• Buildings insurance documents

• Property valuation reports

These documents can help establish ownership and value.

Insurance Policies

Executors should look for:

• Life insurance policies

• Home insurance documents

• Vehicle insurance documents

• Funeral plans

Some policies may provide benefits that form part of the estate administration process.

Pension Information

It is important to identify any pensions the deceased may have held.

Documents may include:

• State Pension correspondence

• Workplace pension statements

• Private pension paperwork

Some pension schemes provide death benefits that may be payable to beneficiaries.

Utility and Household Information

Gathering information about household accounts can help the executor manage ongoing expenses.

This may include:

• Gas and electricity accounts

• Water accounts

• Broadband and telephone services

• Council tax information

• TV licence details

Keeping a record of account numbers and provider contact details can be helpful.

Digital Accounts and Online Information

Many people now manage important aspects of their lives online.

Executors may need information relating to:

• Email accounts

• Online banking

• Subscription services

• Social media accounts

• Cloud storage services

It can be useful to make a list of known accounts and any available account information.

Keeping Everything Organised

Not every document will be easy to find immediately, and some may take time to locate.

Creating a simple inventory of important documents can help executors keep track of what has been found and what still needs attention.

The exact documents required will vary depending on the estate, but gathering information early can make the administration process much smoother.

If you are acting as an executor, the First 30 Days After Loss organiser includes dedicated sections for important documents, financial accounts, contacts and key administrative tasks to help you stay organised during the early stages of estate administration.