What to Do If a Bank Requests a Raised Seal on Letters of Authority (Michigan Probate Guide)

In today’s increasingly digital world, legal systems are evolving to keep pace with technological innovation. One area where this shift is especially important is the use of electronic signatures and digital seals in probate court documents, such as Letters of Authority.

If you’ve been told by a bank or Social Security office that you need a “raised seal,” you’re not alone—but importantly, that request is often not supported by Michigan law.

Understanding Digital Signatures and Electronic Seals in Michigan

A digital signature is an electronic method of signing a document that verifies authenticity and ensures integrity. An electronic seal, often used by courts, confirms that a document is officially issued and legally valid.

These tools are now standard in Michigan probate courts and eliminate the need for paper documents while maintaining full legal enforceability.

Michigan Law on Letters of Authority and Digital Seals

Michigan law clearly supports the validity of electronic probate documents:

Under MCL 565.843, electronic signatures have the same legal effect as handwritten signatures. Electronic seals are legally valid and satisfy statutory requirements. Michigan probate courts routinely issue digitally sealed Letters of Authority

There is no legal requirement for a raised seal, embossed seal, or original ink stamp for probate documents to be enforceable.

Why Michigan Probate Courts Issue Digital Letters of Authority

Today, Michigan probate courts issue Letters of Authority electronically as part of modern court administration.

These documents include a court-issued digital seal, are certified and verifiable, and are legally binding for banks, financial institutions, and government agencies. Digital probate documents are designed to improve efficiency while maintaining legal compliance.

What to Do If a Bank or Social Security Office Requests a Raised Seal

Despite clear legal authority, some banks or Social Security offices may still request a raised seal due to outdated internal policies or a lack of familiarity with digital probate documents. If you encounter this issue, follow these steps:

 Explain that Michigan law recognizes electronic seals as valid and reference MCL 565.843 or similar legal authority.

If the institution continues to push back, ask them to escalate the matter to their legal or compliance department, request a review of their internal policy on electronic signatures and digital court seals, and hire an attorney to provide a written explanation confirming Michigan law.

Why This Issue Matters for Probate and Estate Administration

Understanding your rights when presenting Letters of Authority in Michigan can prevent delays in accessing financial accounts, avoid unnecessary trips to probate court, and ensure banks and agencies comply with current legal standards on digital legal documents.

As probate processes continue to modernize, electronic court documents and digital seals are the norm—not the exception.

Contact Our Office for Assistance

If you are experiencing difficulty with a bank or Social Security office refusing to accept digitally sealed Letters of Authority, our office can help. We regularly assist clients in resolving these issues quickly by providing legal clarification, supporting documentation, and direct communication with institutions when necessary.

Attorney Disclaimer

This blog post is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws may change and vary based on individual circumstances. You should consult a qualified attorney licensed in Michigan regarding your specific legal matter.