U.S. estate services

An eye on the big picture. And every detail.
 

Keeping all the plates spinning. Any executor would probably agree that’s a good description of what’s involved in administering an estate. Even if it’s a relatively simple estate. And when estates are larger, the stakes only get higher.

Picking the right executor—and the right team of supporting professionals—can make a meaningful difference in how easily and efficiently your loved ones will receive their inheritance. And how well your plans are carried out.

What does an executor do?
 

Though it’s a complicated and meticulous task by definition, we can boil it down to three main activities:

• Identifying, collecting, securing and valuing an estate’s assets and liabilities.
• Preserving the value of the estate until distributions are made to beneficiaries.
• Managing estate assets to satisfy ongoing expenses and distributions. For example, to pay debts, expenses, taxes and for professional services.

How we can work with your estate
 

• As sole executor: We take complete responsibility for settlement, administration and estate disposition.
• As co-executor: We share responsibility for oversight and administration with other individuals.
• As an agent for the executor: An executor hires us to perform administrative duties, but retains final responsibility.

What we do
 

In whatever way you and your family choose to work with us, we can take care of all or any part of your estate administration needs. From probate to final distribution of assets.

Estate administration

• Coordinate probate of your will.
• Inventory all estate assets and value the assets for estate tax purposes.
• Secure estate assets—cancel credit cards, review insurance coverage, transfer vehicle registrations, etc.
• Collect all financial assets, and pay debts and expenses of estate.
• Perform complete recordkeeping in compliance with accounting and tax law standards.

Investment management

• Evaluate and determine reserves to meet future distributions, debts, expenses, taxes and other payments.
• Monitor non-financial assets, such as real estate, closely held business interests, and oil, gas and mineral holdings.

Accounting and tax management

• Collect and examine documentation, including personal bank statements, income tax returns and gift tax returns, if any, for the prior three years.
• File and pay income tax returns for the estate. Includes preparation of estate, inheritance, income and transfer tax returns, and responding to tax inquiries and audits.
• Coordinate preparation and approval of final accounting. 

Specialized services

• Analyze and secure closely held business assets, assist with business succession, and make recommendations and decisions as a shareholder or partner.
• Market and execute the sale of real estate and other non-financial specialty assets—such as artwork, collectibles and other esoteric holdings—to meet estate objectives.