KeepMyProof
After a parent dies · Washington
How probate works in Washington after a parent dies
In Washington, anyone holding a will must deliver it to the court or the named executor within thirty days after learning of the death. In Washington, testimony supporting a will is put in writing, signed by the witnesses and certified by the judge.
Educational only. Not legal advice. Sources checked November 2, 2026.
What the official sources say
- In Washington, anyone holding a will must deliver it to the court or the named executor within thirty days after learning of the death. Revised Code of Washington § 11.20.010. Checked November 2, 2026
- In Washington, testimony supporting a will is put in writing, signed by the witnesses and certified by the judge. Revised Code of Washington § 11.20.020. Checked November 2, 2026
- In Washington, if no personal representative is requested and the court establishes the will, no further administration may be needed. Revised Code of Washington § 11.20.020. Checked November 2, 2026
How to keep these papers
Keep dated copies of the papers you already have in one place, and write the day something happened on the same day. KeepMyProof is a private phone app for that: folders with checklists, the day it happened next to the day you saved it, and one PDF of a folder when someone asks.
- Will or trust copies
- Death certificates
- Court papers naming the executor
- Accounts and property papers
- Bills and letters to close out
- Family land papers (heirs' property)
Download the free printable checklist (PDF)
One page, no email needed.
Coming soon to Google Play.
More for Washington
- Creditor claim deadlines for an estate in Washington
- How to order a death certificate in Washington
- Executor duties and deadlines in Washington
- Small estates in Washington: collecting a parent's property without full probate
- Transfer-on-death deeds for a home in Washington
- Executor checklist: papers after a parent dies: the full guide
- How probate works after a parent dies: all states
Neighbouring states
- How probate works in Virginia after a parent dies
- How probate works in West Virginia after a parent dies
- How probate works in Wisconsin after a parent dies
- How probate works in Texas after a parent dies
Questions
Where do these Washington facts come from?
Each fact on this page is copied from an official source: Revised Code of Washington § 11.20.010; Revised Code of Washington § 11.20.020. We checked that each source still says it on November 2, 2026. Rules and forms change, so open the official link and read the current version before you rely on it.
Is this legal advice?
No. This page is educational only and is not legal advice. KeepMyProof is not a law firm. For advice about your situation, ask a lawyer licensed in Washington or your court's self-help center.
Which papers should I keep for after a parent dies?
A good start: Will or trust copies; Death certificates; Court papers naming the executor; Accounts and property papers; Bills and letters to close out; Family land papers (heirs' property). Keep only papers you are allowed to have, write the date on each note, and keep originals somewhere safe.
How can I keep these papers private on my phone?
KeepMyProof keeps copies of the papers you already have in folders with checklists, encrypted on your phone, with no account and no ads. It is free for the first items you save. It is coming soon to Google Play.
Educational only. Not legal advice.