Washington § 11.40.051 - Claims against decedent — Time limits.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 11.40.051 — Claims against decedent — Time limits., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 11.40.051. Claims against decedent — Time limits.

(1) Whether or not notice is provided under RCW 11.40.020, a person having a claim against the decedent is forever barred from making a claim or commencing an action against the decedent, if the claim or action is not already barred by an otherwise applicable statute of limitations, unless the creditor presents the claim in the manner provided in RCW 11.40.070 within the following time limitations:
(a) If the personal representative provided notice under RCW 11.40.020 and the creditor was given actual notice as provided in RCW 11.40.020(1)(c), the creditor must present the claim within the later of: (i) Thirty days after the personal representative's service or mailing of notice to the creditor; and (ii) four months after the date of first publication of the notice;
(b) If the personal representative provided notice under RCW 11.40.020 and the creditor was not given actual notice as provided in RCW 11.40.020(1)(c):
(i) If the creditor was not reasonably ascertainable, as defined in RCW 11.40.040, the creditor must present the claim within four months after the date of first publication of notice;
(ii) If the creditor was reasonably ascertainable, as defined in RCW 11.40.040, the creditor must present the claim within twenty-four months after the decedent's date of death; and
(c) If notice was not provided under this chapter or chapter 11.42 RCW, the creditor must present the claim within twenty-four months after the decedent's date of death.
(2) An otherwise applicable statute of limitations applies without regard to the tolling provisions of RCW 4.16.190.
(3) This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent's probate and nonprobate assets.
[ 2005 c 97 s 6; 1997 c 252 s 11.]

Notes

Application—1997 c 252 ss 1-73: See note following RCW 11.02.005.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 11.40.051

What does Revised Code of Washington § 11.40.051 cover?

Section 11.40.051 ("Claims against decedent — Time limits.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 11.40.051?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 11.40.051" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 11.40.051 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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