Which term refers to the person named in a will to administer the estate?

Which term refers to the person named in a will to administer the estate?

• A. Agent
• B. Personal Representative
• C. Trustee
• D. Administrator

Answer: (B)

In probate and estate planning, the person named in a will to manage and settle the deceased’s assets is the personal representative. This title covers the role of proving the will, gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries as the will directs. In many places, this role is also called the executor, but the formal, overarching term used is Personal Representative, which makes it the best answer here. This person is distinct from a trustee, who runs a trust rather than the probate estate. An administrator is appointed by the court when there is no valid will, serving a similar function but not “named in the will.” An agent is a broad term and not specific to administering an estate.

In probate and estate planning, the person named in a will to manage and settle the deceased’s assets is the personal representative. This title covers the role of proving the will, gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries as the will directs. In many places, this role is also called the executor, but the formal, overarching term used is Personal Representative, which makes it the best answer here.

This person is distinct from a trustee, who runs a trust rather than the probate estate. An administrator is appointed by the court when there is no valid will, serving a similar function but not “named in the will.” An agent is a broad term and not specific to administering an estate.