Estate Planning in Washington
Estate planning doesn't have to be complicated. In Washington, the most important step is creating a valid will — a legal document that says who gets your property, who raises your kids, and who handles your affairs. Below is a plain-English overview of what Washington requires and how to get started.
Why Estate Planning Matters in Washington
If you die without a will in Washington (called “dying intestate”), the state's default inheritance laws decide who gets your assets. A judge — not you — picks who manages your estate and, if you have minor children, who raises them. Estate planning puts you in control.
The Core Documents
1. Last Will and Testament
The foundation of any estate plan. Specifies who inherits your property, names guardians for minor children, and designates an executor. In Washington, you need 2 witnesses for a valid will.
2. Durable Power of Attorney
Designates someone to manage your finances if you become incapacitated. Without one, your family may need court approval to pay your bills or manage your accounts.
3. Healthcare Directive (Living Will)
Spells out your medical care wishes if you can't communicate them yourself. Also names a healthcare agent to make decisions on your behalf.
4. Beneficiary Designations
Retirement accounts, life insurance, and bank accounts often pass directly to named beneficiaries — outside your will. Keeping these up to date is a critical part of estate planning.
Washington Will Requirements at a Glance
Your will is the most important document in your estate plan. Here's what Washington requires:
- •Minimum age: 18
- •Witnesses: 2 required. Must be competent witnesses.
- •Notarization: Not required, but recommended for a self-proving affidavit.
- •Property system: Community property
- •Holographic wills: Not recognized
Will vs. Trust in Washington
A will takes effect after you die and goes through Washington's probate process. A living trust takes effect immediately and can help your estate avoid probate entirely. Trusts are more complex and typically used for larger estates or specific tax planning. For most people, a simple will is the right starting point — you can always add a trust later.
Common Estate Planning Mistakes
- ✕Not having a will at all. 67% of Americans don't have one. Without it, Washington's default laws decide everything.
- ✕Forgetting to update beneficiary designations. These override your will. If an ex-spouse is still listed on your 401(k), they could inherit it.
- ✕Not naming a guardian for minor children. Without a will, a court chooses who raises your kids.
- ✕Improper execution. Washington requires 2 witnesses. Missing a step can invalidate the entire document.
Start Your Washington Estate Plan Today
The first step is a will. Our free tool walks you through plain-English questions and generates a draft formatted for Washington's requirements.
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