Skip to main content
Find a Lawyer
Please enter a legal issue and/or a location
Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select

Washington Wills Laws

Wills are used to state the after-death plans for one's estate, which may include real estate and material possessions. Wills also allow the testator (the person writing the will) to make funeral requests and preferences, for example.

Washington State Requirements For A Valid Will

There are a few basic requirements for a Washington last will and testament. First, the testator must be at least 18 years old and capable of reasoning and making decisions. Also, he or she must sign the will or have someone else sign it at his or her request and in his or her presence.

How Many Witnesses Do I Need?

Creating a valid will isn't a solo activity. At least two people (who are not receiving anything under the Will) who witness the signing or the acknowledgment of the signing of the Will must sign their names in the testator's presence and at his/her request. This is meant to prevent fraud or other illegal activities.

Beneficiaries

The testator can use the Will to distribute property to anyone he or she chooses.

Handwritten and Oral Wills

Washington will laws do not allow holographic (handwritten) wills and place restrictions on nuncupative (oral) wills, limiting personal property to $1,000 and prohibiting real estate designations.

The following chart lists the main provisions of Washington's wills laws. See FindLaw's Wills section for more articles and resources.

Code Section 11.12.010, et seq.
Age of Testator 18 years or older and of sound mind
Number of Witnesses Attested by two or more competent witnesses by subscribing their names to the will or by signing an affidavit (2) while in the presence of and at the direction of the testator.
Nuncupative (Oral Wills) No real estate; personal property not more than $1000; members of U.S. Armed Forces and persons employed on U.S. Merchant Marine vessels may dispose of wages and personal property; must be made with two witnesses present at time of making that testator requested person to bear witness to will and that it was made at time of last sickness; must be reduced to writing, proof offered within 6 months of words spoken, and citation issued to widows and heirs-at-law that they might contest.
Holographic Wills Not valid

Note: State laws are constantly changing -- contact a Washington wills attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Research the Law

Washington Wills Laws: Related Resources

Was this helpful?

You Don’t Have To Solve This on Your Own – Get a Lawyer’s Help

Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.

Or contact an attorney near you:

Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney

Contact a qualified attorney.

Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select

Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?

  • Complex wills & estate planning situations usually require a lawyer
  • A lawyer can reduce the chances of a legal dispute
  • DIY is possible in some simple cases
  • You can always have an attorney review your form

Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.

 

 If you need an attorney, find one right now.

Copied to clipboard

Find a Lawyer

More Options