What Are Letters Testamentary and Letters of Administration?

Letters are the one-page court order that proves you have authority to act for the estate. Letters Testamentary are issued when there is a will and an executor; Letters of Administration are issued when the court appoints an administrator. Title companies, banks, and buyers will ask to see them, because they are your legal credential to sign on the estate's behalf.

You receive Letters after the court appoints you at the initial hearing, once any required bond is posted. Until they are issued, you cannot bind the estate to a sale. Certified copies are usually needed, so order several. The Letters may also note whether you hold full or limited authority under the Independent Administration of Estates Act.