The Difference Between Administrator CTA and Administrator DBN in New York Estates

In the context of New York estates, "administrator CTA" and "administrator DBN" refer to different types of estate administrators.

Administrator CTA (Cum Testamento Annexo)

This Latin term translates to "with the will annexed." An administrator CTA is appointed when a person dies with a will, but there is no executor named in the will, or the named executor is unable or unwilling to serve. The court appoints an administrator CTA to manage and distribute the estate according to the terms of the will.

Administrator DBN (De Bonis Non)

This Latin term translates to "of goods not administered." An administrator DBN is appointed when an original executor or administrator has started the administration of an estate but did not complete the process. The court appoints an administrator DBN to take over and complete the administration of the remaining assets of the estate.

What This Means

Administrator CTA is appointed when there is a will but no executor able to serve.

Administrator DBN is appointed when an estate administration was started but not completed by the original executor or administrator.

We at the Law Offices of Albert Goodwin have experience applying for both Administrator CTA and Adminstrator DBN. We are located in Midtown Manhattan in New York, NY and serve New York City and the surrounding counties. You can call us at 212-233-1233 or send us an email at [email protected].