About Successor Letters Testamentary
To authorize a successor executor to take over estate administration duties when the original executor is unable or unwilling to continue.
When you'd use it: File this form in New York Surrogate's Court when an original appointed executor needs to be replaced and a successor executor is ready to assume the role.
Where to get the official form
Successor Letters Testamentary is published through the New Yorkcourts' official forms page. Open it to find and download the current version directly from the court rather than a third-party copy:
Official court source
Open the official New York forms page →
Source: nycourts.gov
Link last checked: June 27, 2026
How to file Successor Letters Testamentary in New York
- Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Successor Letters Testamentary when file this form in New York Surrogate's Court when an original appointed executor needs to be replaced and a successor executor is ready to assume the role. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — New York 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 Successor Letters Testamentary 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 Successor Letters Testamentary to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the New York county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).