A telescoping, self-aligning, fastener comprising a telescoping nut assembly flexibly connected to a companion sleeve, wherein said telescoping nut assembly comprises a nut and two or more extensions depending from said nut; said nut comprises a head and an internally threaded portion; said extensions are configured such that at least one slot is formed between each extension; said companion sleeve comprises an opening at one end configured to couple to a telescoping nut assembly, an opening at the opposite end configured to accept a male fastener portion, and said openings are connected by an interior cavity; and said telescoping nut assembly is able to rotate and translate relative to the companion sleeve.