How Do I File Probate in King County, Washington?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Superior Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
Probate documents in King County can be filed in person at the Superior Court, by mail, or electronically. Most families handling probate themselves prefer paper filing, though e-filing is available.
Filings here are routed through Ex Parte and Probate Department and Clerk's Office. Confirm with the office which intake handles the petition type you're filing.
Your Filing Options
How to File Your Documents
Paper Filing Available
You can file your probate documents in person at the court or by mail.
E-Filing Also Available
If you prefer, you can file electronically through the state's online system. This is optional for families filing without an attorney.
View E-Filing InformationCan You File Without an Attorney?
Not every estate requires an attorney. Factors like estate size, asset types, and whether beneficiaries agree can determine if self-filing at the Superior Court is realistic for your situation.
Self-represented filers may file probate and submit orders via EPVC. Noticed probate matters require at least 14 days advance notice; the original will must accompany the petition. NOTE: the King County Family Law Facilitators explicitly cannot assist with will or probate matters.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full King County Self-Filing Assessment.
King County Filing Requirements
These are specific requirements for filing probate in this county. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays or rejected filings.
Before You File
Uses KC Script Portal for e-filing (not eFileWA)
King County is one of only two counties with a separate e-filing system. Uses KC Script Portal instead of the statewide eFileWA system. eServices team: 206-477-3000 or eservices@kingcounty.gov.
SourceDocument Requirements
Personal representative name must match exactly
Per LCR 98.04, personal representative names must match exactly between oath and order documents. Bonds must be signed by the principal with surety address included. Address changes must be filed within 30 days.
SourceWill Repository for original wills
A testator may deposit an original will under seal with the Clerk before death for a $20 filing fee.
SourceCourt Appearances
Dedicated Ex Parte and Probate Department
King County operates a dedicated Ex Parte and Probate Department within Superior Court. Noticed probate matters require 14 days advance notice per LCR 98.04. Non-noticed matters (periodic reports, bond approval) go through EPVC; the case file is not reviewed, so all supporting documents must be included.
SourceKing County Forms
This county uses specific forms in addition to state-standard forms. Using the correct forms helps avoid delays or rejected filings.
Ex Parte via the Clerk (EPVC) Cover Sheet
DownloadRequired cover sheet to present probate and other orders through EPVC (up to five proposed orders per submission).
In-Person Filing
The Superior Court is located at 516 3rd Ave, Rm C-203, Seattle, WA 98104-2361. Phone: 206-477-1400. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM.
Before You Go
Walk-ins accepted
You can file in person without an appointment. Routine probate orders are presented through Ex Parte via the Clerk (EPVC) rather than at a hearing counter; self-represented filers may submit EPVC in person, by mail, or electronically. Two filing locations: King County Courthouse (516 Third Ave, Seattle) and Maleng Regional Justice Center (401 Fourth Ave N, Kent). Security screening required.
Accepted payment
Cash, Check, Money order, Credit card. For Ex Parte via the Clerk (EPVC) probate presentations: check, money order, cash, or credit card in person. E-filed payments add a $2.49 credit-card processing fee.
What to Bring
To file at the Superior Court you need: the original will (or proof there isn't one), a certified death certificate, contact information for all heirs and beneficiaries, and a summary of what the estate owns and owes.
Court Resources
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the Superior Court website.
Court information verified June 2, 2026 · Source
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Superior Court in King County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($290). Once the court issues letters, the personal representative can act.
At minimum: petition for probate, application for letters testamentary or of administration, notice to heirs, and an oath for the personal representative. King County uses the standard Washington probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Washington allows informal (unsupervised) probate, which many families handle themselves for simple estates. The Superior Court in King County does not require attorney representation. Use the Washington self-filing assessment to see if your estate qualifies.
Yes. The Superior Court in King County accepts e-filing through the state portal. In-person filing at the courthouse is still available for those without digital access.
Assets stay locked, creditors can still pursue them, and beneficiaries cannot sell real property or close accounts. After a few years, interested parties can petition to open probate themselves. Waiting rarely helps. Families who set up a revocable living trust ahead of time bypass this problem entirely.
Superior Court
King County
516 3rd Ave, Rm C-203
Seattle, WA 98104-2361
Phone:
206-477-1400Fax:
206-296-0986
Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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