Washington probate guide

Probate process in Washington

Washington probate runs in the Superior Court, with a total filing fee of $290 ($200 plus surcharges). Washington is famous for non-intervention powers, which let the personal representative administer most uncontested estates with virtually no court supervision. The small-estate affidavit under RCW 11.62 covers personal-property estates of $100,000 or less, requires a 40-day wait, and is not filed with any court. Washington is a community-property state and recognizes transfer-on-death deeds under RCW 64.80.

Washington probate at a glance

Court
Superior Court
Typical timeline
24–52 weeks
Filing fee
$290
Small-estate threshold
$100,000
TOD deed allowed?
Yes
Bond required by default?
No
Statute
Wash. Rev. Code Title 11; RCW 11.62 (small estates)

Source: www.courts.wa.gov. Fees and thresholds change — verify with your county court before filing.

How Washington probate works, step by step

  1. 1File petition for probate and grant of non-intervention powers
  2. 2Court admits will to probate and appoints personal representative
  3. 3Publish notice to creditors; four-month claim period runs
  4. 4Pay debts, Washington estate tax (if applicable), and family allowance
  5. 5File declaration of completion and distribute the estate

Probate by county in Washington

Filing fees, court contacts, and process detail for 4 Washington counties:

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This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county and changes over time. Consult a licensed Washington probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.