Once debts have been paid and tax obligations settled or adequately reserved for, the executor can proceed to what is often the most rewarding stage of the estate administration process: distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries.
This section will guide you through how to carry out distributions in accordance with the terms of the will, or, where there is no will, under provincial intestacy laws. We’ll explain the various forms that distributions can take - including cash payments, transfers of specific assets, or the establishment of trusts - and outline best practices for handling special scenarios or complex entitlements.
You’ll also find practical tips on:
- Avoiding disputes among beneficiaries
- When and how to obtain written releases or approvals
- How to manage a reserve holdback for any remaining liabilities or costs before making final distributions
With a clear plan and good communication, this final stage can be completed smoothly and respectfully—bringing closure to your responsibilities as executor and peace of mind to the estate’s beneficiaries.
Preparing for Distribution
Distributing Specific Gifts (Bequests and Devises)
Distributing the Residuary Estate
Handling Potential Conflicts and Special Situations
Final Estate Wrap-Up: Closing Out the Administration
The distribution phase is often the most meaningful and rewarding stage of estate administration. Beneficiaries finally receive the legacy that was intended for them, and it is your careful, diligent stewardship that ensures this happens smoothly, fairly, and in full compliance with the law.
As executor, you have carried the estate through a complex journey - from a time of grief and uncertainty, through detailed organization and legal responsibilities, to the final delivery of the gifts entrusted to your care. Your efforts have brought the estate to a respectful and well-managed conclusion.
Next: Executor Compensation and Continuing Obligations
While the estate may now be closed, there are still a few final topics to address. In the next section, we’ll examine:
- Executor compensation: How your fee is calculated, how to seek approval, and how to manage disputes
- Ongoing duties: What records you should retain, and for how long, even after the estate is closed
These elements often coincide with the final distribution, as executor compensation is typically calculated and approved just before the estate is wound up.
Let’s now turn to how executors are compensated for their time, effort, and responsibility - and how to responsibly close your file for good.