The Executor Advisor   ~ Logistical tips for settling your parents' estate

Eternity Leave.  I recently heard the term eternity leave and like it a lot. Word Spy defines it as job protection and paid leave for people caring for dying loved ones.  I would suggest that the definition be expanded to include “deceased loved ones” as well.

Being an executor is extremely time-consuming and for people with full-time jobs can be overwhelming. Increasingly, people are negotiating time-off to fulfill their responsibilities as executor.

There are many things that require time and attention during the normal 9:00-5:00 work day which could distract an executor from their day-job. Disposing of assets and property can often require additional work on-site. Many businesses that an executor needs to contact are only open during work hours.

Some executors are opting to focus a specific amount of time on their executor-duties and request time-off to do so.  It can be as simple as a part-time arrangement that allows for a couple of hours a week, or it can be a complete hiatus from work for some period of time.  One friend of mine quit her job completely to deal with the complexities of her father’s estate.

Tips: See if your job has eternity leave benefits.  Negotiate with your employer for an arrangement that would allow you to complete your executor duties. Consider paying yourself from the estate to compensate for lost wages.

Information found on this web site is for general informational purposes only based on personal experience and should not be construed as legal, tax or other professional advice. You should consult an experienced attorney , tax professional or financial advisor concerning your particular factual situation and any specific questions you may have.