Best Online Will Makers in Washington 2026

Why Estate Planning Matters in Washington

Creating a will or living trust is one of the most important financial decisions you can make for your family. Without a valid will, Washington's intestacy laws — not your wishes — determine who inherits your assets, who raises your children, and how your estate is distributed.

The good news: online will makers have made legal estate planning accessible to every Washington resident at a fraction of traditional attorney costs ($89–$399 vs. $1,500–$5,000+ for a traditional estate attorney).

Washington Estate Planning Laws

Probate in Washington

Washington Superior Courts handle probate. Washington has a unique 'nonintervention' administration that is very efficient for most estates. Small estates under $100,000 can use simplified affidavit procedures.

A revocable living trust is the most effective way to avoid probate entirely in Washington. Assets held in a trust pass directly to beneficiaries outside of court — saving time, legal fees, and the stress of probate proceedings.

Washington Estate & Inheritance Tax

Washington has a state estate tax on estates over $2.193 million (2026), with rates from 10% to 20%. Washington has no state income tax.

Medicaid Asset Protection in Washington

Washington DSHS Medicaid has a 5-year lookback with standard federal rules.

If you or a family member may need nursing home care in the future, Medicaid planning in Washington should be part of your estate plan. Speak with a licensed elder law attorney for personalized advice.

Quick Comparison: Best Will Makers for Washington

Detailed Reviews: Best Will Services for Washington

Our team reviewed each service based on Washington-specific document accuracy, ease of use, price, customer support, and compliance with Washington's will signing requirements.

How to Create a Valid Will in Washington

Creating a legally valid will in Washington requires following specific formalities. Here's what you need:

1. Be of legal age: You must be 18 or older (or legally emancipated) to create a will in Washington.
2. Sound mind: You must be of "sound mind" — understanding what a will is, what you own, and who your heirs are.
3. Written document: Washington requires a written (typed or printed) will. Most states also recognize handwritten (holographic) wills.
4. Signature: Sign your will at the end. If you cannot sign, someone may sign in your presence at your direction.
5. Witnesses: 2 witnesses required; notarization for self-proving status.
6. Safe storage: Store your original will somewhere safe. Tell your executor where to find it. Consider filing it with the Washington court if your state allows it.

Will vs. Living Trust in Washington

Both wills and living trusts are valid estate planning tools in Washington, but they serve different purposes:

Frequently Asked Questions: Wills & Trusts in Washington

Next Steps for Washington Residents

Ready to protect your family? Here's what to do:

1. Choose a service: Trust & Will is our top recommendation for Washington residents.
2. Gather information: List your assets, beneficiaries, and executor choices before starting.
3. Complete your documents: Follow the state-specific instructions for Washington signing requirements.
4. Execute properly: Sign with your witnesses (2 witnesses required; notarization for self-proving status.) and keep the original safe.
5. Review periodically: Update your will after major life events (marriage, divorce, birth, significant asset changes).

Disclosure: Law-Trust.com earns a referral fee from some services on this page. This does not affect our editorial independence — we only recommend services we've reviewed. See our editorial policy. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Washington attorney for personalized estate planning guidance.