Are you currently trying to make a plan for your estate after you pass away, and you've reached the point where you need to pick an executor? If so, it will help to follow these 5 tips that will guide your choice.

Pick A Close Family Member

It is always a good idea to pick a close family member if possible to be the executor of your estate. Many people decide to pick one of their children in this instance, but you may want to pick a sibling if a child is not possible. They are going to be the closest to you, so others should not have an issue with them being the executor of your estate.

Talking To The Executor Before You List Them

Your executor should know that you are giving them this responsibility of being the executor before you list them. Consider having a talk with them and asking if they are okay with having those responsibilities with handling your estate. If not, consider picking somebody else that is more willing to do the job. A listed executor does not have to take on the role if they do not want to, and it will only cause complications later on if they pass and do not do it.

Consider A Backup Executor

You don't have to list just one executor in your estate plan since you can list multiple executors in a preferred order. This may be necessary if you have multiple children and there is an order that you want them to be picked as the executor if necessary. You can list as many backup executors as you want since it is simply an order that they will be asked when the time comes. 

Pick Someone That's Responsible

Sometimes it is not best to pick someone close to you if you feel that they may not be a responsible executor. For example, if you have a child that is bad with money and decision-making, it will be best to pick someone else to take on the role. You do not have to tell people why they are not picked as the executor since all you need to do is give a name. 

Consider The Proximity

You should also think about picking someone to be the executor that lives close to you, rather than someone that lives far away. It is going to make things much easier for them to deal with things that must be done in person since they won't have to travel far to visit the property and handle assets of yours. 

Reach out to an estate planning attorney for more information about picking an executor.