What is the difference between executor and administrator?

An executor and an administrator are two different roles when it comes to probate law in Indiana. The executor is appointed by the deceased person during life in either a will or trust. That person has the responsibility of carrying out the wishes of the deceased as specified in the will or trust. The administrator is appointed by the court after the deceased has passed away if the deceased did not designate an executor. The job of the administrator is to manage the deceased’s estate and ensure that all of the assets are accounted for and distributed according to Indiana law. The executor is responsible for administering all of the assets that are listed in the will or trust. This means they are in charge of collecting, managing, and distributing all of the assets according to the wishes of the deceased. The executor is also responsible for filing all the necessary paperwork with the court, paying any debts and taxes the deceased may have had, and working with the Probate Court in order to ensure the deceased’s wishes are carried out. The administrator is more limited in their responsibility than the executor. The administrator is responsible for managing the estate and distributing assets according to the law. The administrator is not responsible for carrying out any wishes of the deceased (unless they conflict with the law). The administrator is simply responsible for collecting, managing, disbursing, and distributing all assets according to the law.

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