In this Elder Law Minute, Senior Associate Attorney Paige Fox from Dent Coulson Elder Law explains the pros and cons of naming co-executors or co-trustees—and why a simpler approach may make estate administration faster and less stressful.
When Co-Trustees Make Sense
If both spouses are healthy and have capacity, naming them as co-trustees of a living trust is often practical. They can work together to manage trust assets and decision-making during their lifetimes.
Why Co-Executors or Co-Trustees Can Cause Delays
While it may seem fair to appoint multiple children or family members to serve together, it can create challenges:
Slower Administration – Both must agree on every decision, delaying probate or trust work.
Extra Signatures – Many institutions require both co-executors or co-trustees to sign documents.
Potential Conflict – If appointees don’t get along, disagreements can stall progress.
If your goal is to improve family relationships, naming co-executors is not an effective way to force cooperation—and can have the opposite effect.
Limits Under Illinois Law
Illinois law does not allow co-agents for powers of attorney for health care or property. You can name successor agents—for example, spouse first, then a child if the spouse cannot serve—but not two people to act together at the same time.
Collaboration Without Co-Appointments
Even if only one person is officially named, they can still consult with and involve other trusted family members. This approach avoids the delays that come with requiring multiple signatures for every step.
When Co-Appointments May Be Helpful
In rare cases, co-executors or co-trustees may be appointed for oversight purposes. This can add a layer of accountability—but it also extends timelines and increases administrative steps.
Final Recommendation
While naming co-executors or co-trustees is allowed, it’s rarely the most efficient option. A single, trusted individual often leads to a smoother and faster administration process.
? Need help with estate planning, probate, or trust administration? Contact us at DentCoulsonElderLaw.com to get started.
Also looking for information about Medicaid and Asset Preservation? Visit these articles:
“Your Trusted Advisor on the Elder Care Journey”
Dent-Coulson Elder Law is dedicated to providing families in the St. Louis area with their Elder Law needs. Our practice areas include Asset Preservation Planning, Veterans Benefits, Medicaid Eligibility, Alzheimer’s Planning, Special Needs Planning, Estate Planning and more. We understand the financial challenges you may face as you and your loved ones grow older. At Dent-Coulson Elder Law, our clients’ well-being is our number one priority. For immediate help, call (618) 632-7000 (IL) or (314) 567-9292 (MO), or Contact Us and we will get in touch as soon as possible.
