Who fills this out
The personal representative does not fill out letters themselves. The clerk of the superior court issues them automatically after approving the probate application (PBF1F with will, PBF13F intestate).
When to file
Letters are issued by the court within 7-14 days of an approved informal probate application. The personal representative requests certified copies (typically 3-5) from the clerk at appointment and orders more from the clerk's office as needed.
What you will need
- The approved probate order from the registrar.
- Acceptance of appointment and any required bond on file.
- Certified copy fee (typically $30-$40 per copy in most counties).
- Each bank, brokerage, or title company usually wants a certified copy issued in the last 60 days.
Common mistakes
- Bringing an old set. Banks routinely reject letters more than 60 days old. Re-order certified copies from the clerk before each transfer.
- Bringing a photocopy. Institutions require the raised seal; a plain copy of a certified copy is rejected.
- Mixing up letters testamentary and letters of administration. Letters testamentary attach to a probated will; letters of administration attach to an intestate estate; the rest of the process is the same.
- Acting before letters issue. A nominated executor has no authority until the court issues letters.
Questions families ask
How many certified copies should I order?
Plan on one per institution holding an asset, plus two extras. Each Arizona county clerk charges about $30 per certified copy.
Do letters expire?
Letters do not technically expire, but most institutions require a certification dated within the last 60 days. The probate stays open until the estate closes.
Related forms
AOC PBF1F is the application a person nominated in an Arizona will files in superior court to open informal probate. It asks the registrar to admit the will and issue letters testamentary so the personal representative can settle the estate. Most applications are processed without a hearing within 7-14 days of filing.
AOC PBF13F is the application filed in Arizona superior court to open informal probate when the decedent died without a will. It asks the registrar to appoint a personal representative under intestate priority and issue letters of administration. The court typically issues letters within 7-14 days of filing when the application is clean.