Washington Estate Tax Planning
Preserve more. Reduce risk. Protect your legacy.
Why Washington-Specific Planning Matters
Washington is one of the few states that imposes its own estate tax, separate from federal laws. As of July 1, 2025, estates valued over $3 million will be subject to Washington’s estate tax. Because of this, strategies that work in many other states may not apply here.
Some tools and approaches—such as
Nonintervention Powers—are unique to Washington’s probate law. Trusts, gifting, and business structuring must align with the specific thresholds, rules, and exemptions set by WA law. That’s why tailored planning for Washington can make a significant difference in preserving your estate.
How We Can Help
We offer advanced legal tools for minimizing estate and gift tax burden under Washington law:
Marital & Bypass Trusts
Maximize spousal exemptions and reduce taxable estate value.
QTIP Trusts
Provide for a surviving spouse while preserving control over how assets pass later.
Gifting Strategies
Leverage lifetime gifting and annual exclusions to reduce estate exposure.
Charitable Giving
Support causes you care about while getting estate and income tax benefits.
Asset Valuation & Discounts
Use qualified appraisals and valuation tools to lower taxable values, especially for real estate or business interests.
Business Structuring
Align business ownership and succession structures so they’re efficient, tax‑advantaged, and aligned with your overall estate plan.
Focused expertise. Washington‑law insights. Personalized legacy design.
- Deep knowledge of Washington state estate tax rules and exemptions
- Dual‑state capabilities for clients with significant ties to California and Washington
- Experienced in trusts, gifting, and business assets planning
- Prioritize client goals, clarity, and minimizing tax surprises
Don’t let tax law erode your legacy. We’ll help you preserve what matters.
Our Process: How We Minimize Washington Estate Tax
Tax Exposure Review
We begin by evaluating your assets, past gifts, and projected estate value to determine potential Washington and federal estate tax liability.
Signing & Implementation
Based on your goals, we develop a personalized plan using trusts, gifting techniques, business structuring, and valuation discounts to minimize your taxable estate.
Implementation
We establish and execute all required trusts, gifting strategies, and legal filings—ensuring full compliance with Washington estate tax law.
Valuation & Legacy Planning
We collaborate with appraisers for accurate asset valuations and incorporate charitable giving or legacy strategies to reduce taxes and support your long-term vision.
Ongoing Review & Adjustments
As laws and life evolve, we periodically review your plan to ensure it remains effective, up-to-date, and aligned with your financial future.
Our Approach
Why Clients Choose Wade Law Offices
Focused expertise. Washington‑law insights. Personalized legacy design.
- Deep knowledge of Washington state estate tax rules and exemptions
- Dual‑state capabilities for clients with significant ties to California and Washington
- Experienced in trusts, gifting, and business assets planning
- Prioritize client goals, clarity, and minimizing tax surprises
Don’t let tax law erode your legacy. We’ll help you preserve what matters.