What powers do executors of wills have?

Executors of wills in New Hampshire are people named in the will to manage the estate of the deceased person. They have certain legal powers and duties in order to administer the will. The main duty of an executor is to distribute the estate according to the directions of the will, and make sure all debts and taxes are collected and paid. This includes locating and collecting all assets of the deceased, such as cash, property, investments, and debts due to the deceased. Executors must also file any necessary paperwork, such as an inventory of the estate, with the court. Executors also have the power to pay the debts and taxes of the deceased from estate assets. They can also take certain actions to protect the estate from creditors, such as selling property or investing funds in a trust. They can also invest estate funds for the benefit of the beneficiaries. In addition to these powers, executors also have the authority to hire professionals, such as attorneys, to help with estate administration. They can also negotiate with creditors and settle claims against the estate. The executor is ultimately responsible for making sure all the terms of the will are followed, and the wishes of the deceased are respected. They should maintain detailed records throughout the administration process and provide accounts of the estate to beneficiaries.

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