When someone is named as an executor in a will, they often feel both honoured and overwhelmed. Being chosen reflects trust, but it also comes with serious legal and administrative responsibilities. This leads many people to ask an important question: does the executor of an estate get paid?

In Australia, the answer is sometimes — but it depends on several factors, including how the will is written, the complexity of the estate, and how compensation is approved.

What does an executor actually do?

An executor’s role begins after a person’s death and can last for months or even years. The responsibilities involved are often far more extensive than people expect.

Common duties include:

• Locating and securing the original will

• Applying for probate through the Supreme Court

• Notifying banks, government agencies, and creditors

• Managing and protecting property and other assets

• Paying outstanding debts, taxes, and expenses

• Preparing financial records and estate accounts

• Distributing assets to beneficiaries in accordance with the will

This work can be time-consuming, emotionally demanding, and legally complex — especially when family dynamics, large estates, or disputes are involved. For this reason, asking does the executor of an estate get paid is entirely reasonable.

When is an executor entitled to payment?

In Australia, an executor is not automatically entitled to payment simply for taking on the role. However, there are three main circumstances in which compensation may be approved.

1. The will specifically allows payment

The clearest situation is when the will includes a clause stating that the executor is entitled to a fee or commission.

This clause may:

• Specify a fixed amount

• Authorise a percentage-based commission

• Refer to “reasonable remuneration”

When a will clearly authorises payment, it reduces confusion and helps avoid disputes between executors and beneficiaries.

2. Beneficiaries agree to payment

If the will is silent on executor payment, compensation may still be possible if all beneficiaries agree.

In this case:

• The agreement should be documented in writing

• The amount should be reasonable and transparent

• Legal advice is often recommended

This approach works best when there is trust and open communication among family members.

3. Court approval

If there is no clause in the will and no agreement among beneficiaries, an executor may apply to the Supreme Court for commission.

When deciding does the executor of an estate get paid through court approval, judges consider factors such as:

• Time and effort required

• Size and complexity of the estate

• Skill, diligence, and responsibility shown by the executor

• Any difficulties or disputes managed

Court applications can be expensive and time-consuming, which is why this option is usually considered a last resort.

How much do executors get paid?

There is no fixed or standard rate for executor compensation in Australia.

Executor commission is often calculated as a percentage of the estate’s value, commonly up to around 5%, but this varies widely. In some cases, a lower percentage or a fixed amount may be considered appropriate.

The court’s primary focus is fairness — ensuring the executor is reasonably compensated without unfairly reducing beneficiaries’ inheritances.

Family members acting as executors

Many executors are spouses, adult children, or close relatives. In these cases, some choose not to accept payment, particularly when:

• The estate is small

• Administration is straightforward

• The executor views the role as a family responsibility

Others accept compensation because of the significant time, stress, and responsibility involved.

Understanding does the executor of an estate get paid helps families have honest conversations early and avoid resentment or misunderstanding later.

Professional executors

In some cases, a solicitor or trustee company is appointed as executor. Professional executors charge fees for their services, often calculated hourly or as a percentage of the estate.

While professional fees are generally higher, they offer:

• Legal expertise

• Administrative efficiency

• Neutrality in complex or conflicted estates

This option is sometimes chosen to reduce family tension or manage particularly complex estates.

A compassionate reminder

At Black Tulip Funerals, we often see families navigating estate matters alongside grief. Uncertainty around executor compensation can add unnecessary stress at an already difficult time.

Clear conversations — ideally before death — about executor roles and payment can prevent conflict, delays, and emotional strain.

A thoughtful close

So, does the executor of an estate get paid? Sometimes, yes — but only under specific conditions.

Whether payment is authorised by a will, agreed upon by beneficiaries, or approved by the court, transparency and fairness are key. With clear understanding and guidance, executors can fulfil their role with confidence, and families can move forward with trust and clarity.