In 1404, her spouse was made heir apparent and Zhang was elevated to crown princess (Chinese: 皇太子妃; pinyin: Huáng Tàizǐfēi).

Zhang, a respectful and filial as well as a good manager played a part in his retaining the position as the heir apparent.

[4] On 7 September 1424, her spouse ascended the throne as the Hongxi Emperor, and on 29 October, she was made empress (Chinese: 張皇后; pinyin: Zhāng Húanghòu).

He granted his mother the title of Empress dowager (Chinese: 張皇太后; pinyin: Zhāng Húang tàihòu).

[5][6] In 1435, Zhang's son was succeeded by her eight-year-old grandson, Emperor Yingzong of Ming, and she was granted the title Grand empress dowager (Chinese: 太皇太后; pinyin: Tàihuáng tàihòu).

[7] To prevent any succession dispute, Zhang appeared before the ministers and presented her grandson as the new emperor.

[5] Though she refused the title, however, she still acted as regent, and held council with her ministers, listened to their views, and reserved the final say to her.