Application for Letters of Administration

Legacywyse gives you everything a first-time executor needs: the recommended probate process for your situation, realistic costs and timelines, and pre-filled court documents — including the application for letters of administration.

Start the questionnaire

Direct answer

Used when there is no will. You ask the court to appoint you (or another qualified person) to be in charge of the estate and to issue Letters of Administration — the paperwork banks and others require to release accounts and transfer property.

Where to file

Filed with the probate court handling the estate, in person or through eFileTexas.gov.

Signatures

Applicant signs.

Notarization

The person swearing to it signs before a notary. Legacywyse plans include virtual notary sessions for supported counties.

Which probate paths use it

This document belongs to 2 paths. The Legacywyse questionnaire sorts your estate facts first, then adds it to your packet when the path calls for it.

What's in the document

Legacywyse fills in from your answers

  • Decedent
  • Date of death
  • Applicant
  • Applicant address

You complete

  • Why an administrator is needed
  • Your priority basis to serve

Case filing fees by county

These are the county fees to open the underlying probate case, from each county's published schedule. For the cost of filing this document into a case that is already open, check the clerk's fee schedule. Fees change, so re-verify before filing.

CountyIndependent AdminDependent AdminCourt
Dallas County$388$388Dallas County Probate Courts
Tarrant County$380$380Tarrant County Probate Courts
Collin County$385$385Collin County Probate Court
Denton County$385$385Denton County Probate Court
Harris County$432$432Harris County Probate Courts
Travis County$378$378Travis County Probate Court
Bexar County$391$391Bexar County Probate Courts

Common questions

Where does the Application for Letters of Administration go?

Filed with the probate court handling the estate, in person or through eFileTexas.gov.

Who signs the Application for Letters of Administration?

Applicant signs. The person swearing to it signs before a notary.

Which Texas probate paths use this document?

It belongs to these paths: independent administration, dependent administration.

Does Legacywyse prepare this document?

Yes. Legacywyse generates it from your questionnaire answers inside the private workspace, with the county details filled in. You review it, sign where required, and file it. Legacywyse is not a law firm, and this page is general information, not legal advice.

Review note

Updated July 7, 2026. Legacywyse links to Texas court, statute, tax, and county sources when a guide discusses filing, authority, taxes, or local probate process. The content is general information, not legal advice.

Keep reading

Let's take the next step together.

Answer a few questions about your situation, and we'll help you through what comes next.

Get started free