About LETTERS (Probate)
This form serves as the official court-issued letters appointing a personal representative (executor, administrator, or special administrator) to administer a decedent's estate.
When you'd use it: Filed and issued by the court after an Order for Probate is granted, authorizing the named personal representative to act on behalf of the estate.
Where to get the official form
The official version of LETTERS (Probate) is published as a PDF by the California courts. We checked this link and it resolved to a form on an official court or government website — always download the current version directly from the source rather than a third-party copy:
Verified official PDF
Download LETTERS (Probate) (PDF) →
Source: courts.ca.gov
Link last checked: May 30, 2026
How to file LETTERS (Probate) in California
- Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse LETTERS (Probate) (DE-150) when filed and issued by the court after an Order for Probate is granted, authorizing the named personal representative to act on behalf of the estate. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — California probate forms are revised periodically, so verify the name and number against your court's current form list before you start.
- Step 2 — Complete every required fieldFill out LETTERS (Probate) carefully and review it for errors before filing. Probate cases can already take months — a small mistake on the form can set your timeline back further.
- Step 3 — Get it notarized or witnessed if requiredSome probate forms must be signed in front of a notary or witnesses. Check the instructions on the form itself, and arrange notarization before you file if it's required.
- Step 4 — File it with the correct courtSubmit LETTERS (Probate) to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the California county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).