Executor Duties in Alberta: What You Need to Know Before Accepting the Role

Serving as an executor—called a personal representative under Alberta’s Estate Administration Act—is an honour, but also a job that can last a year or more. Before you say “yes,” make sure you understand the executor responsibilities Alberta law imposes and what help is available.

1. What Does an Executor Actually Do?

At the highest level, you are the estate’s project‑manager and fiduciary. Alberta.ca summarizes the role in four pillars:

Pillar	Key Tasks
Identify	Locate the will; inventory all assets and debts; secure valuables.
Administer	Keep assets insured, maintain property, redirect mail, keep detailed records.
Satisfy	Satisfy Debts & Taxes Pay funeral costs, creditors, and file the deceased’s final and estate T1/T3 returns.
Distribute	Distribute & Account Obtain releases, prepare a full accounting, and transfer what remains to the beneficiaries.

2. Detailed Checklist of Duties of an Executor in Alberta

1. Apply for probate (Grant of Probate or Administration) when required.

2. Open an estate bank account and move liquid assets into it.

3. Advertise for creditors if risk of unknown debts is high.

4. Value and liquidate assets as needed—real estate, private shares, vehicles, collectibles.

5. Keep beneficiaries informed; furnish an interim accounting on request.

6. Obtain Canada Revenue Agency clearance before final payouts.

7. Prepare a final report and get written releases from all adult beneficiaries.

A free downloadable checklist can help you track each step  .

3. How Much Time Will It Take?

Estate Complexity	Typical Duration
Simple (cash, listed investments, 1 home)	6–12 months
Medium (multiple properties, business shares)	12–24 months
Complex	(foreign assets, disputes) 24 + months

Even a “simple” estate often involves 50‑plus discrete tasks—each with its own deadline and paperwork.

4. Liability & Personal Risk

• Fiduciary standard: You must act honestly, in good faith, and with the care of a prudent person.

• Financial exposure: If you distribute too soon and a hidden debt surfaces, you may be personally liable.

• Family dynamics: Miscommunication can trigger litigation; court costs come out of the estate – or your pocket if you were negligent.

5. Are Executors Paid?

Yes. Alberta follows flexible “percentage‑of‑estate” guidelines:

• 3 – 5 % of the first $250 k

• 2 – 4 % of the next $250 k

• 0.5 – 3 % of the remainder 

Courts adjust compensation up or down based on complexity, results, and time invested. Reasonable out‑of‑pocket expenses (mileage, postage, legal fees) are reimbursed separately.

6. Questions to Ask Before Accepting

• Do I have the time? Expect a part‑time job for several months.

• Am I organized with paperwork and finances?

• Could my relationships survive the stress? Neutral third‑parties sometimes fare better than feuding siblings.

• Do I live in Alberta? A non‑resident executor may need a bond or co‑executor.

• Is the will clear and up‑to‑date? Ambiguities invite disputes.

• Will professional help be required (lawyers, accountants, appraisers)? Budget for those fees.

• Am I comfortable with personal liability? Insurance or a corporate executor may be wiser.

  
  

7. Ways to Lighten the Load

Option	Pros	Cons
Hire professionals (lawyer, tax accountant)	Expertise, reduced errors	Fees reduce estate value
Appoint a co‑executor	Shared workload, local presence	Must act jointly; potential stalemates
Delegate tasks to agents	Flexibility	Executor still ultimately liable
Consider a trust company	Bonded, experienced	Higher compensation, less personal touch

8. Key Takeaways

• Executor responsibilities Alberta law imposes are extensive—inventory, probate, creditor & tax clearance, accounting, and distribution.

• Time commitment and liability are real. Declining the role is acceptable if you are unable to serve effectively.

• Compensation is available but must be “fair and reasonable” and approved by beneficiaries or the court.

• Professional guidance early—especially for probate filings and tax issues—saves both money and family harmony.

Need Help?

Wiebe Law offers free consultations, full probate representation, and ongoing support for Alberta executors. Whether you’re deciding to accept or you’ve already taken the oath, we can guide you every step of the way.

This article provides general information, not legal advice. Consult counsel about your specific circumstances.