What Is an Estate Administrator?
An estate administrator (Manhel Izavon) is a person appointed by the court or agreed upon by the heirs to manage the estate of a deceased person. Unlike the heirs themselves, the administrator has legal authority to act on behalf of the estate — collecting assets, paying debts, and distributing the remainder to beneficiaries.
When Is an Administrator Appointed?
An administrator is appointed when: (1) there are disputes among heirs, (2) the estate has complex assets such as a business or multiple properties, (3) creditors of the estate require protection, or (4) the heirs live abroad and cannot manage affairs locally. An executor named in a valid will performs a similar role but derives their authority from the Probate Order rather than a separate appointment.
Powers and Duties of the Administrator
- Taking inventory of all estate assets and liabilities.
- Opening and managing an estate bank account.
- Collecting debts owed to the estate.
- Paying the estate's debts and obligations.
- Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the will or Inheritance Order.
- Filing tax returns for the estate period.
Who can be appointed as estate administrator in Israel?
Any legally competent adult can serve as estate administrator — typically the main heir, an attorney, or a trusted professional. When heirs agree on a candidate, courts generally confirm the choice. When heirs cannot agree, the court may appoint an independent administrator. The administrator must report to the court periodically and cannot distribute estate assets without proper authorisation.
