How to Choose Your Estate’s Executor Key Qualities to Keep in Mind Deciding how to divide your assets after death can be a difficult process, so choosing an Executor for your will often seems simple by comparison. But it’s a topic people neglect at their loved ones’ peril. The wrong Executor can lead to costly errors, court challenges, and unnecessary strain on surviving family members. A surprising number of people choose the person they think “should” be the Executor (such as the eldest child) rather than the person right for the job. However, this is one estate planning decision you should not make emotionally. A good Executor should have several qualities that suit them to the task. Above all, an Executor must be honest. An unscrupulous executor can irreversibly damage an estate through fraud or waste. While these actions are illegal, the assets could be unrecoverable when the problem is discovered. Choose someone you trust to always do the right thing. It’s almost as crucial to choose a person who is responsible. An Executor’s responsibilities involve paying bills, filing taxes, notifying institutions of your death, preparing court documents, and mediating disputes. Someone who struggles with paperwork or keeping a positive balance in their bank account will likely be a disastrous choice, no matter their other qualities. Also, consider family dynamics when choosing your Executor. For example, if you have two children who do not get along, it’s probably wise to have neither serve as Executor of your estate. The bad blood could lead to disputes and legal challenges. Remember, a person doesn’t have to receive an inheritance from your will to act as Executor. Finally, when naming your Executor, consider what you’re asking of them. Being an Executor can be an honor, but it’s also a grave responsibility. Before putting their name in writing, engage them in a conversation and receive their permission. Someone who feels resentful or burdened is less likely to do a good job. The estate planning attorneys at Douglass & Runger cannot tell you who to choose as an Executor, but they can provide valuable guidance as you decide or even assist you in the preparation of a Trust which avoids probate altogether. If you or a loved one need to create or update your estate plan, call our team at 901-388-5805 to schedule a personalized consultation.
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
Stuffed bell peppers are a common meal in many households. And as temperatures begin to drop, there’s no better way to warm up than by turning this classic recipe into a hearty — and healthy — soup!
INGREDIENTS • 2 lbs ground beef • 6 cups water • 1 28-oz can tomato sauce • 1 28-oz can diced tomatoes, undrained • 2 cups chopped green peppers • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tsp salt • 2 tsp beef bouillon granules • 1 tsp black pepper • 2 cups cooked long- grain rice • Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
DIRECTIONS 1. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook beef until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles; drain. Add beef back to the pot and stir in all ingredients except the cooked rice. Bring to a boil. 2. Reduce heat. Simmer uncovered until peppers are tender, about 30 minutes. 3. Add cooked rice and simmer, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. INSPIRATION “The soul is healed by being with children.” —Fyodor Dostoyevsky
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