Washington § 12.40.040 - Service of notice of claim — Fee.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.040 — Service of notice of claim — Fee., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12.40.040. Service of notice of claim — Fee.

The notice of claim may be served either as provided for the service of summons or complaint and notice in civil actions as described in RCW 4.28.080 or by registered or certified mail if a return receipt with the signature of the party being served is filed with the court. No other legal document or process is to be served with the notice of claim. Information from the court regarding the small claims department, local small claims procedure, dispute resolution services, or other matters related to litigation in the small claims department may be included with the notice of claim when served.
The notice of claim shall be served promptly after filing the claim. Service must be complete at least ten calendar days prior to the first hearing.
The person serving the notice of claim shall be entitled to receive from the plaintiff, besides mileage, the fee specified in RCW 36.18.040 for such service; which sum, together with the filing fee set forth in RCW 12.40.020, shall be added to any judgment given for plaintiff.
[ 2019 c 251 s 3; 1997 c 352 s 2; 1984 c 258 s 61; 1981 c 194 s 3; 1970 ex.s. c 83 s 3; 1959 c 263 s 9; 1919 c 187 s 4; RRS s 1777-4.]

Notes

Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.
Severability—1981 c 194: See note following RCW 36.18.040.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 12.40.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.040 cover?

Section 12.40.040 ("Service of notice of claim — Fee.") 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 § 12.40.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.040" (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 § 12.40.040 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

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.