Washington Guide
What to do when someone dies in Washington.
A step-by-step guide for families navigating death administration in Washington. Covers death certificates, cremation rules, probate, and average costs.
First 24 Hours in Washington
Getting a Death Certificate in Washington
How many do you need? Plan to order at least 10–12 certified copies. You will need them for banks, insurance companies, government agencies, retirement accounts, and courts. It is much cheaper to order extras upfront than to reorder later.
Washington Legal Requirements
Washington has a state estate tax with a $2.193 million exemption.
Average Funeral Costs in Washington
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many death certificates do I need in Washington?
Plan for at least 10–12 certified copies. Each financial institution, insurance company, government agency, and court requires its own original certified copy. It costs $25 per copy per copy from the Washington State Department of Health.
How long does probate take in Washington?
Straightforward probate in Washington typically takes 6–12 months. Complex estates with disputes or significant assets can take 2–3 years. Estates under $100,000 may qualify for a simplified process.
How soon can cremation happen in Washington?
Washington requires a 24 hours waiting period before cremation. All paperwork must be completed and signed by the authorized next-of-kin before cremation can proceed.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Washington?
If someone dies without a will ("intestate") in Washington, the estate is distributed according to state intestacy laws. Generally assets pass to the spouse first, then children, then other relatives in a specific legal order determined by the probate court.