Once estate money is in the bank, (I am the only executor to my late father) what am I allowed to do with it? Are there any rules as to withdrawals?

Are you talking about an estate account and the estate is not closed - or are you talking about you being the only heir (not the only executor)?

In my area Probate Court has to approve ANY AND ALL withdrawals and estate funds can only be used to pay estate bills. Once the estate is settled, of course, and distribution made, then the estate account is closed.

Or are you talking about early distribution?

My dad's life insurance policy amounts to $4000 and this is what I had to pay out of my own pocket for his funeral expenses. He has no other debts and I am the only heir and executor so in a sense I just need to be reimbursed. Once this money is in the bank for his estate I was told that I would have complete access to the money. Is this true?

My dad's life insurance amounts to $4000 and this is about the same amount that I had to pay out of my own money to pay for his funeral. Once that money has been put into the bank I was told that I could have complete access to it as I am the only executor and heir. I am just trying to be reimbursed for his funeral expenses. Is it true that I have access to that money?

No, not in NY. As executor you have to account for every penny until the estate is closed.

You can reimburse yourself for funeral expenses, of course, but I don't know what State you are in and you may have to get the Court's permission.