Free Printable Washington Advance Directive & Requirements
Medical care instructions if you become incapacitated
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ADVANCE DIRECTIVE FOR HEALTHCARE State of Washington PART I — APPOINTMENT OF HEALTHCARE AGENT I, [YOUR NAME], of [ADDRESS], Washington WA, appoint the following person as my Healthcare Agent: Agent Name: [AGENT NAME] Address: [AGENT ADDRESS] Phone: [PHONE] Alternate Agent: [ALTERNATE NAME] Address: [ALTERNATE ADDRESS] Phone: [PHONE] My Healthcare Agent is authorized to make all healthcare decisions for me when I am unable to do so, including decisions about life-sustaining treatment. PART II — INSTRUCTIONS FOR HEALTHCARE If I am terminally ill or permanently unconscious: [ ] I DO want life-sustaining treatment [ ] I DO NOT want life-sustaining treatment [ ] I want treatment only if my doctor believes it will improve my condition Artificial Nutrition and Hydration: [ ] I DO want artificial nutrition and hydration [ ] I DO NOT want artificial nutrition and hydration Pain Management: I want all measures taken to keep me comfortable and free from pain, even if such measures hasten my death. Organ Donation: [ ] I wish to donate my organs and tissues [ ] I do not wish to donate my organs PART III — GENERAL PROVISIONS This directive is made in accordance with Washington law (WA Statutes). It shall remain in effect until revoked. DECLARANT SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ WITNESS 1: _____________________ DATE: _____ WITNESS 2: _____________________ DATE: _____ NOTARY (if required in Washington): Subscribed and sworn before me this ___ day of _______, 20__. Notary Public: _____________________
Jennifer Rodriguez, J.D.
Estate Planning Attorney
Licensed in 5 states, 12+ years experience
Focuses on wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
This Advance Directive template for Washington has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Advance Directive Costs in Washington
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Washington standard rate: $10 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Washington |
| Sales Tax | 6.5% | Washington base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
FAQ: Advance Directive in Washington
Is a Advance Directive required in Washington?
Yes, in Washington, a Advance Directive is required for most transactions of this type. Under Washington State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Advance Directive may result in legal complications.
Does a Advance Directive need to be notarized in Washington?
Notarization requirements in Washington (WA) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $10. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Advance Directive in Washington?
Washington has a base sales tax rate of 6.5%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Advance Directive, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Washington tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Is an advance directive the same as a living will?
An advance directive is a broader document that typically includes both a living will (treatment preferences) and a healthcare power of attorney (appointing a decision-maker). Some states combine these into one form.
When does an advance directive take effect?
An advance directive takes effect only when you are unable to communicate your own healthcare decisions, typically due to unconsciousness, severe illness, or cognitive impairment. Your doctor must determine you lack decision-making capacity.
Do hospitals have to follow my advance directive?
Yes, healthcare providers are legally required to follow valid advance directives in all states. However, a provider may refuse on moral grounds but must transfer your care to another provider who will honor your wishes.
Washington Advance Directive Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Advance Directive is legally valid in Washington.
Washington Notarization
While notarization may not be required in Washington, it is recommended. Fees range from $10.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Washington, a 6.5% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Washington law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Washington Filing Deadlines
Check Washington deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Washington Advance Directive Legal Guide
According to Washington laws, this agreement holds legal weight once properly signed and notarized, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
In Washington, according to Washington State Code, a 6.5% sales tax applies to applicable transactions. Notary fees in WA typically range from $10. A single witness signature is sufficient under state law.
This professionally drafted form provides peace of mind knowing you're compliant with all Washington legal requirements.
Getting It Done Right in Washington
Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any WA-required notarization. Washington makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Advance Directive is legally binding in Washington and enforceable in WA courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Washington courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable WA statutes.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Washington attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with WA law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Washington law changes
Legal Standards in Washington
Under WA state code, your Advance Directive must contain several mandatory elements. Washington courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
Once properly executed, your Advance Directive is legally binding in Washington and enforceable in WA courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Washington courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable WA statutes.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Washington attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with WA law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Washington law changes
Legal Standards in Washington
Under WA state code, your Advance Directive must contain several mandatory elements. Washington courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
Under WA state code, your Advance Directive must contain several mandatory elements. Washington courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
Where to File Your Advance Directive in Washington
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Advance Directive.
Washington County Clerk
Washington Capital
Main Government Building, Washington
District County Clerk
Washington Metro Area
County Courthouse, WA
Other Forms in Washington
Advance Directive in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Advance Directive
- State
- Washington (WA)
- Category
- Estate Planning
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6.5%
- Notary Fee
- $10
Washington Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Law
- ✓Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Washington may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.