Letters Testamentary
The court document proving you have authority to act as executor under a will.
Also known as: Letters.
What Letters Testamentary means in an estate
Letters testamentary are issued to the executor named in a will that the court has admitted to probate. They do the same job as letters of administration: they are the proof of authority that third parties rely on before releasing anything. Some states issue a single document under one name for both situations, so the name of the document varies by state even though the function does not.
How this works in your state
The concept is national, but the forms, procedure names, thresholds, and filing practice vary by state. Open your state glossary and guides to see how letters testamentary is handled where the estate is being settled.
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Information current as of April 4, 2026
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.