What is the difference between executor and administrator?

The difference between an executor and an administrator lies in the roles they each play in the probate process in California. An executor is someone who is named in the will of the deceased, and who is charged with managing the estate. This would include paying taxes, distributing assets, and other duties as ordered by the courts. An administrator is someone who is appointed by the court when someone dies without leaving a will. This person is also responsible for managing the estate, but they have less autonomy in how the estate is handled. Executors must provide an Inventory and Appraisement Report to the court detailing all of the assets of the estate. This document must be approved by the court to ensure the assets are being distributed properly. Administrators are not required to provide an Inventory and Appraisement Report, as they are appointed by the court and are more closely supervised. Instead, administrators must provide regular court-ordered accountings to ensure the assets are being distributed properly. Another difference is that executors are allowed by law to be compensated for their services, while administrators are not. Executors can also receive reimbursement for expenses made while managing the estate. In contrast, administrators are not allowed to accept any type of compensation or reimbursement. In summary, an executor is someone who is designated in the will of the deceased to manage the estate, while an administrator is someone who is appointed by the court when someone dies without leaving a will. Executors must submit an Inventory and Appraisement Report to the court, while administrators do not, and executors are entitled to compensation, while administrators are not.

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What is the difference between executor and administrator?

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