Probate Glossary

Letters Testamentary

Court-issued authority for an Executor named in a will.

Definition

Letters Testamentary are probate court documents confirming that an Executor named in a will has been appointed and has authority to act on behalf of the estate.

Related Terms

executorwillletters-of-authority

You May Also Want To Learn

Executor
A person named in a will to administer the estate.
Will
A legal document explaining how property should be distributed after death.
Letters of Authority
Court-issued proof of authority to act for the estate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Letters of Authority used for?

Letters of Authority show that the probate court has appointed someone to act for the estate. Banks, title companies, courts, and other institutions may ask for them before releasing information or allowing estate transactions.