Trust & Will
By Maya Powers
Updated March 21st, 2025
What rights do the beneficiaries of a will get and what does it mean for others involved in the administration of the estate? Find out what you need to know, as the executor of an estate…
As an executor, your duty is to administer the estate on behalf of the beneficiaries — in compliance with the will and the law. Unfortunately, you may find yourself in situations where not everyone agrees with your position as executor or the choices you make. Beneficiaries may make requests you can’t — or don’t want to — honor.
Knowing what rights beneficiaries have can help you set appropriate expectations and boundaries. You’ll be confident that you’re performing your executor duties effectively, and you can be clear with beneficiaries about the limits of your duties if you need to be.
Depending on your family circumstances, the beneficiaries of the will may request many things. Here’s what they legally have the right to ask for:
- For the executor to act in their best interests
- To receive in a timely manner whatever was left to them
- To receive information about the estate
- To request a different executor
Beneficiaries may want things you cannot provide, and that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re denying them their rights. They may want their assets before you’ve paid creditors. They may want the family home to sell for a higher price. If you sold it for a reasonable market price, you haven’t infringed on their rights.
