[WA] How does my mother amend her will?
Hi, my mother would like to amend her will. Is this something you could help with and what documentation do you need from me? Thank you!
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You can use a codicil to amend the will. A codicil is a short document that amends an existing will (adds, deletes, or tweaks terms). It’s treated as part of the will it modifies. Washington law handles codicils under the same rules that apply to wills (RCW 11.12.040).
How to execute it (formalities)
Washington requires the same execution steps as a will: the codicil must be in writing, signed by the testator, and attested by two competent witnesses who sign in the testator’s presence (physical or electronic presence). Washington also allows electronic wills, and those procedures can apply if you choose to execute an “electronic codicil.”
You can make a paper or electronic will/codicil “self-proving” by using the statutory witness affidavits so the court doesn’t need to find the witnesses later (RCW 11.20.020(2)). For electronic wills/codicils, see RCW 11.12.450.
If a later will revokes your earlier will in full, that also revokes any codicils to the earlier will (unless doing so would conflict with your intent).
Practical tips
- Use a codicil for targeted, limited changes; if you have multiple or major revisions, it’s cleaner to sign a new will.
- Title it “Codicil to the Last Will and Testament of [Name] dated [date],” clearly state each change (e.g., “Section 4(b) is amended to read …”), and confirm that all other provisions remain in effect. Execute with two witnesses (or follow the electronic-will steps).
The codicil amends the will, but sometimes it is easier to just make a new will.
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Hi, my mother would like to amend her will. Is this something you could help with and what documentation do you need from me? Thank you!
Lexi, Chatbot
I understand your mother would like to amend her will. Has she already discussed the changes she wants to make with you or anyone else?
Yes, with me on a few occasions.
Lexi, Chatbot
Are there any specific reasons or details behind the decision to amend her will that you think the lawyer should know about?
She would like to change the disposition of any remaining assets upon her death.
Lexi, Chatbot
Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with amending her will.
Yes.
Evan
This is Evan and I will be answering your question. Sorry to hear about this situation. What state is this located in?
Washington.
Evan
You can use a codicil to amend the will. A codicil is a short document that amends an existing will (adds, deletes, or tweaks terms). It’s treated as part of the will it modifies. Washington law handles codicils under the same rules that apply to wills (RCW 11.12.040).
How to execute it (formalities)
Washington requires the same execution steps as a will: the codicil must be in writing, signed by the testator, and attested by two competent witnesses who sign in the testator’s presence (physical or electronic presence). Washington also allows electronic wills, and those procedures can apply if you choose to execute an “electronic codicil.”
You can make a paper or electronic will/codicil “self-proving” by using the statutory witness affidavits so the court doesn’t need to find the witnesses later (RCW 11.20.020(2)). For electronic wills/codicils, see RCW 11.12.450.
If a later will revokes your earlier will in full, that also revokes any codicils to the earlier will (unless doing so would conflict with your intent).
Practical tips
- Use a codicil for targeted, limited changes; if you have multiple or major revisions, it’s cleaner to sign a new will.
- Title it “Codicil to the Last Will and Testament of [Name] dated [date],” clearly state each change (e.g., “Section 4(b) is amended to read …”), and confirm that all other provisions remain in effect. Execute with two witnesses (or follow the electronic-will steps).
The codicil amends the will, but sometimes it is easier to just make a new will.
Evan
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