Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Agribusiness Practice Test

What role does an executor play in a will?

1. They create the will

2. They manage the trust during the grantor's life

3. They carry out the instructions of the testator

4. They distribute assets before debts are paid

The correct answer is: They carry out the instructions of the testator

An executor plays a crucial role in the administration of a will, primarily by carrying out the instructions set forth by the testator, the person who created the will. Once someone passes away, the executor is responsible for ensuring that the deceased's wishes are followed as stated in the will. This includes tasks such as managing the estate's assets, paying outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries according to the directions laid out in the will. The position of the executor is vital because it ensures that the process of settling the estate adheres to the legal requirements and the specific wishes expressed in the will. Their responsibilities can encompass filing the will with the probate court, notifying beneficiaries, and overseeing any necessary legal proceedings involved in executing the will. In comparison, the responsibilities described in the other options do not align with the role specifically assigned to an executor. For instance, creating the will is the responsibility of the testator or a legal adviser, and managing a trust during a grantor's life pertains to a trustee, not an executor. Additionally, distributing assets before debts are paid contradicts legal protocols, as debts must be settled first before any distributions to beneficiaries can occur.