How Much Does an Executor Get Paid in Washington?
Calculate how much an executor (personal representative) can charge for administering an estate. Fees vary by state law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Washington allows executors to receive "reasonable compensation" as determined by the court.RCW 11.48.210 (reasonable compensation; no statutory percentage)Verified May 1, 2026 Courts consider the size and complexity of the estate, the time spent, and the executor's skill and experience. Typical fees range from 2% to 4% of estate value.
Yes. Executors in Washington can waive their fee entirely or accept a reduced amount. Family members serving as executor often waive compensation, particularly when they are also beneficiaries of the estate. Waiving the fee reduces the overall cost of probate and increases the amount available for distribution to beneficiaries.
Washington requires executors to post a surety bond.RCW 11.28.185Verified May 1, 2026 The bond requirement can be waived in the will or by court order. The bond protects beneficiaries against executor misconduct or mismanagement.
An executor in Washington is responsible for filing the will with the probate court, inventorying assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries.RCW 11.62.010 (small estate, $100K, 40-day wait); RCW 11.40.020 (notice/publication, permissive); RCW 11.40.051 (4-month creditor claims with notice, 24-month bar without); RCW 11.28.185 (bond); RCW 11.48.210 (reasonable PR/attorney fees); RCW 11.68 (nonintervention powers); RCW 36.18.020 + HB 1207 (2025 c 357, eff. 7/27/2025) (court filing fee surcharge) — verified against app.leg.wa.gov 2026-05-01Verified May 1, 2026 The process typically takes 4-6 months for simple estates and 6-9 months on average. The 4-month creditor claim period sets a minimum timeline. The Washington executor checklist outlines each step.
Executor fees and attorney fees are separate costs in Washington probate. Attorney fees are based on reasonable compensation.RCW 11.48.210 (reasonable compensation; no statutory percentage)Verified May 1, 2026 Executor compensation is calculated separately from attorney fees. Both fees are paid from the estate before distribution to beneficiaries.
Total probate costs in Washington include executor fees, attorney fees, court filing fees, publication costs, and potentially bond premiums. Executor compensation is one component of the overall expense. The total typically ranges from 3-8% of the estate value depending on complexity. Use the Washington probate calculator for a complete cost estimate.
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Washington Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Washington probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
