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.