Do I Need a Vehicle Transfer on Death Designation in Washington?

Because Washington does not offer a vehicle TOD designation, the vehicle transfers through: Affidavit of Inheritance/Litigation (DOL form TD-420-041): when the deceased left no estate necessitating administration and no letters of administration or letters testamentary were issued, the heir submits the affidavit with the vehicle or vessel title and a copy of the death certificate, then applies for a new certificate of title (WAC 308-56A-335(4)(d); form TD-420-041)., Surviving joint owner: if joint tenancy was indicated on the certificate of ownership, the surviving owner transfers the title into their name with a copy of the death certificate (WAC 308-56A-335(1)(c), (4)(b))., Community property agreement: a surviving spouse/partner transfers title with a copy of the death certificate and a copy of the community property agreement (WAC 308-56A-335(4)(c)). A community property agreement is a "nonprobate asset" under RCW 11.02.005(14)., Administered estate: the personal representative releases and transfers the vehicle using letters testamentary, letters of administration, or a certificate of the county clerk (WAC 308-56A-335(4)(a)); the vehicle may also be titled as "Estate of (deceased's name)" pending final settlement (WAC 308-56A-335(2), (3)). A person acquiring a vehicle by inheritance must apply for a new certificate of title within 15 days of delivery (RCW 46.12.650(6)(a)).. To keep other assets out of probate, SimplyTrust sets up a revocable trust online.

Without a vehicle TOD option, a Washington vehicle typically passes through the estate unless it is jointly titled or held in a trust, or qualifies for a small-estate transfer. Compare your options with the trust vs. will comparison.