Is an Informant the Same as an Executor? Exploring the Differences and Similarities
When it comes to handling a deceased person’s estate, there are several roles that need to be considered, such as an informant and executor. However, despite many people mistakenly using these terms interchangeably, they are different in terms of their roles and responsibilities. In this article, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between an informant and executor.
What Is an Informant?
The informant is typically the family member or close friend responsible for reporting the death to the relevant authorities. They must verify the deceased person’s identity, the date and time of death, and the location of the death. This information is then used by the authorities to produce a death certificate. In some countries, the informant is required to register the death with a civil registration office.
What Is an Executor?
An executor is the person who is appointed to manage the deceased person’s estate and carry out their wishes as dictated in their will. They have a legal responsibility to distribute the assets to the beneficiaries as per the will. The executor must also settle any debts, such as taxes or outstanding bills, of the deceased person using the money in the estate.
What Are the Responsibilities of an Informant?
The informant’s primary responsibility is to report the death of the deceased person to the relevant authorities. They must provide accurate information, including the deceased person’s name, date, and place of birth, and their national insurance number. Informants may have to provide additional details, such as any family members or civil partnership, that existed at the time of death.
What Are the Responsibilities of an Executor?
An executor, on the other hand, has a broader range of responsibilities. They are required to manage the deceased person’s estate and ensure that their assets are distributed to the beneficiaries as per the will. They must also settle any debts that the deceased person had and file tax returns. Executors may need to sell some of the assets in the estate to settle any outstanding debts or distribute the assets fairly among the beneficiaries.
Similarities Between an Informant and an Executor
Despite the differences outlined above, the informant and executor share some similarities in their roles. For example, both require a considerable amount of administrative work, such as filling out forms and submitting them to the relevant authorities. Informants and executors both have a legal obligation to handle their responsibilities accurately and efficiently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential to recognize the differences and similarities between an informant and executor when dealing with the estate of a deceased person. The informant’s role is limited to reporting the death to the relevant authorities, while the executor’s responsibilities are far-reaching. However, both roles require a competent and organized individual willing to handle their responsibilities professionally and efficiently.
