Required Documents for Completing a Washington Small Estate Affidavit

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult an attorney for guidance on your specific situation.

Detailed Answer

In Washington, a small estate affidavit allows eligible individuals to collect certain assets without formal probate. Under RCW 11.62.010, you may use this process if the decedent’s personal property does not exceed $100,000 in value and real property does not exceed $25,000.

To complete the affidavit, gather the following documents:

1. Certified Death Certificate
   Obtain at least one certified copy from the Washington State Department of Health or the county vital records office.
2. Washington Small Estate Affidavit Form
   Use the statutory form prescribed in RCW 11.62.060. This includes a schedule of assets and the value of each item.
3. Proof of Ownership and Value
   • Bank and brokerage account statements showing balances at date of death
   • Vehicle titles or registrations
   • Deeds or title documents for real property (if claiming under $25,000)
   • Property valuations or appraisals, if required by the institution holding the asset
4. Decedent’s Will (if one exists)
   Attach a copy of the will to show your authority, even if you intend to use the small estate process.
5. Affidavit of Heirship or Family Tree Chart
   If there is no will, prepare an affidavit identifying all heirs and their relationship to the decedent.
6. Affiant’s Identification
   Provide a legible copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
7. Creditor Notice List
   Compile names and addresses of known creditors. You must notify them before distribution as required by RCW 11.62.080.
8. Filing Fee
   Check the Superior Court clerk’s office in the county where the decedent lived for current fees.

Once assembled, file the affidavit with the Superior Court clerk’s office in the decedent’s county of residence and pay the filing fee. After filing, wait at least four months to allow creditors to file claims before distributing assets.

Helpful Hints

• Confirm total estate value stays within the $100,000 personal and $25,000 real property limits.
• Use certified copies of the death certificate—institutions often reject uncertified copies.
• Submit original titles or deeds where required; keep copies for your records.
• Contact banks or title companies in advance to learn about any additional forms they require.
• File in the correct county—typically where the decedent resided at death.
• Keep a complete set of copies of everything you file with the court.
• Maintain proof of service showing you notified each creditor.
• If questions arise or the estate exceeds limits, consider consulting a probate attorney.