When Your Loved One's Estate Needs an Administrator
When someone passes away with a will, the most common way to settle their estate in Texas is through Independent Administration. This is the process used when the estate needs someone — an executor or administrator — to actively manage things like paying bills, selling property, or distributing assets to beneficiaries.
The word "independent" is the key here. Unlike a dependent administration (which requires court approval for nearly every action), an independent administrator can handle most estate matters without going back to the judge for permission. This means less time, less paperwork, and significantly lower costs for your family.
If your loved one's will names an executor and grants them "independent" authority — which is the case in most well-drafted Texas wills — this process is relatively straightforward. We file the application, the court confirms the executor, and then they have the legal authority to manage and distribute the estate according to the will's instructions.
Who Needs Independent Administration?
- Estate has unpaid debts — There are bills, medical expenses, credit cards, or other debts that need to be paid from the estate before assets can be distributed.
- Property needs to be sold — The estate includes real estate, vehicles, or other assets that need to be sold and the proceeds divided among beneficiaries.
- Multiple assets to manage — Bank accounts need to be closed, investments transferred, insurance collected, or business interests managed before distribution.
- Will names an executor — The will designates someone to serve as executor or independent administrator, and that person is willing and able to serve.
How the Process Works
- Consultation and Filing — We review the will, identify the right approach, prepare the application, and file it with the Bexar County Probate Court.
- Court Appointment — After the required waiting period, the court holds a hearing and officially appoints the independent executor. We handle the hearing for you.
- Estate Administration — The executor receives Letters Testamentary and can begin managing the estate — paying debts, collecting assets, and distributing to beneficiaries.
We also prepare the required Inventory, Appraisement and List of Claims, and guide the executor through every step of the administration process.
Transparent Pricing
Our flat fee starts at $3,500 and includes the application, court hearing, Letters Testamentary, and initial guidance for the executor. The Inventory, Appraisement and List of Claims preparation is available as an add-on service.