What Happens to a Will After Divorce in Washington?

For many individuals in Bellevue, Issaquah, and throughout the Eastside, divorce brings a long list of financial updates. Real property is retitled. Retirement accounts are divided. Bank accounts are separated.

But what happens to your will?

Under Washington law, certain provisions in a will that benefit a former spouse are generally treated as revoked after divorce. Gifts to a former spouse or nominations naming them as executor may no longer apply.

However, that does not mean your estate plan is fully updated.

The remainder of your will remains intact — including contingency plans created during your marriage. Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies are governed separately. Trust structures may remain unchanged. Powers of attorney and health care directives typically continue in effect unless formally revoked.

In other words, divorce does not function as a complete reset of your estate plan.

Relying on default revocation rules can leave gaps, especially for families with real estate in King County, blended family considerations, or complex assets.

A thoughtful review ensures your documents reflect your present wishes — not simply what Washington statutes provide by default.

Divorce changes your life. Your estate plan should be intentionally aligned with that change.