New York State Notary Practice Exam

Who is responsible for managing the estate of a deceased person who left no will?

1. Affiant

2. Executor

3. Administrator

4. Guardian

The correct answer is: Administrator

The correct choice is indeed the administrator. When a person passes away without leaving a will, they are said to have died intestate. In such cases, an administrator is appointed to manage and distribute the deceased individual's estate according to the state's intestacy laws. This individual is typically a close relative of the deceased, and their role is to ensure that debts are paid, assets are inventoried, and the remaining estate is distributed to the rightful heirs. The other roles listed serve different purposes. An executor is specifically appointed in a will to handle the estate of someone who has died testate, meaning they had a will. An affiant refers to a person who makes a sworn statement or affidavit, which is not relevant in this context. A guardian typically pertains to the care of minors or incapacitated individuals, rather than managing the estate of a deceased person. Therefore, the administrator is the appropriate and responsible party in situations where there is no will.