Executor Checklist

Read the Will Carefully
Obtain advice from Etienne Lawyers
Identify the beneficiaries
Notify the beneficiaries of their entitlements and send a copy of the Will to the beneficiaries

Make a list of all the assets (video recording or photographing household items is a good idea)

Ensure all property is secured (change locks on buildings if necessary, move vehicles to secure location if no garage, store valuable household items securely. Place jewellery in a safe. Hand Certificates of Title or Share documents to Etienne Lawyers
Redirect Mail
Cancel drivers license
Cancel any Centrelink payments
Claim any medical expenses from Medicare
Cancel memberships and claim refunds
Notify home and contents insurance if property is unoccupied
Apply for Death Certificate or request from Funeral Director
Write to financial institutions with whom the deceased held accounts and ask for confirmation of assets/liabilities and the specific requirements for releasing the funds
Write to share registries to confirm shareholdings and dividends paid
Write to accountant and superannuation funds manager to confirm financial details
Prepare financial details to lodge any outstanding tax returns of the deceased
Apply for an estate tax file number
Prepare tax return for the estate
Prepare application for probate

Redeem and collect assets
Pay debts and liabilities
Wait for the expiry of the six month limitation period for family provision claims against the estate and defend the Will against a challenge if it arises
Prepare estate accounts showing all money collected and paid on behalf of the estate
Attend to reimbursement of expenses incurred on behalf of the estate
Distribute estate to beneficiaries in accordance with the terms of the Will