Document background
The Executor Letter of Authority is a fundamental document in Swiss inheritance law, required when an executor needs to prove their legal standing to act on behalf of a deceased person's estate. This official authorization is particularly crucial in Switzerland's highly regulated financial and legal environment, where banks and other institutions require formal documentation to allow access to accounts and assets. The document is typically issued by local Swiss authorities following the death of an individual and the confirmation of a valid will or other instrument appointing the executor. It contains essential details about the deceased, the appointed executor(s), and the scope of authority granted. The Executor Letter of Authority is especially important given Switzerland's role as a global financial center and its strict banking secrecy laws, making it a critical tool for proper estate administration.
