Washington
Estate law, probate process, and inheritance rules for Washington — in plain language.
$3,000–$5,000 typical
Affidavit RCW §11.62
Rate: 10%–20% graduated
Community property state — spouse owns 50% of community
Surviving spouse takes 100% of community.
- ✓Must be 18+ and of sound mind
- ✓May be required to post bond unless will waives it
- ✓Must file inventory of estate assets
- ✓Must give notice to creditors per statute
- ⏱Will filed within 40 days
- ⏱Estate tax return: 9 months after death
- ⏱Notice to creditors: 4 months
- ⚠WA estate tax threshold lower than federal
- ⚠Community-property double-step-up at first spouse's death is major tax benefit
- ⚠Seattle/Bellevue real estate often pushes estates over threshold
- →CP double-step-up: review WA-specific planning
- →Trust for estates > $2M
- →Lifetime gifting
- RCW Title 11 (Probate and Trust Law)
- RCW Chapter 83.100 (Estate and Transfer Tax)
Statute references are for orientation only. Verify current text with your state legislature's website. Not legal advice — consult an attorney licensed in Washington.
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