After someone dies, many Executors immediately start paying bills. It feels responsible. But sometimes the smarter first step is to understand the entire financial picture. Before paying everything, figure out: - What assets exist? - What debts exist? - Are there ongoing expenses? - Are there administration expenses? - Is there enough money to pay everything? - Are there tax issues that need to be considered? Administration is not necessarily: Bill arrives → write check. Sometimes the correct sequence matters. When you are uncertain, gather the information before moving the money.

How can I help? Ask me your questions and I'll answer!

One of the most important mindset shifts for an Executor or Trustee is this: You are managing someone else's money. Even if you will eventually inherit some of it. That means fiduciary money should be: - Kept separate - Carefully documented - Used only for appropriate purposes - Accounted for - When deciding whether to spend estate or trust money, ask: “Could I comfortably explain this expense to every beneficiary?” If the answer is no, pause. Good fiduciary administration is not only about doing the right thing. It is about being able to show what you did.

Share your method. It may help someone else here.

Not because anyone necessarily distrusts you. Because six months from now, you may not remember why that $427 check was written.