Washington Judgment Enforcement Guide | Debt Collection & Skip Tracing

Washington Judgment Enforcement — Quick Facts

10 yrs

Judgment Lifespan

6 yrs

Debt SOL (Written)

12%

Post-Judgment Interest

✓

COMMUNITY PROPERTY STATE

Washington is a community property state with a 12% post-judgment interest rate — one of the highest in the nation. Wage garnishment is available, and the homestead exemption of $125,000 is moderate. Community property rules can expand a creditor’s reach to jointly-held marital assets.

Washington Statute of Limitations on Debt

Debt Type	Limitation Period	Statute
Written Contract	6 years	`RCW §4.16.040`
Open Account / Credit Card	3 years	`RCW §4.16.040`
Oral Contract	3 years	`RCW §4.16.080`
Promissory Note	6 years	`RCW §4.16.040`
Judgment Lien	10 years (renewable)	`RCW §6.17.020`

Washington’s 6-year SOL for written contracts is standard. Community property status means a creditor with a judgment against one spouse can potentially reach community (joint) assets.

Post-Judgment Interest Rate

Washington post-judgment interest accrues at 12% per annum under RCW §4.56.110. Interest compounds annually beginning on the judgment date.

Judgment Recovery Methods in Washington

Wage Garnishment yes

Washington allows wage garnishment of 25% of disposable earnings or the excess over 35× state minimum wage per week, whichever is less (RCW §6.27.150).

Bank Account Levy yes

Bank account garnishments are available after judgment under RCW §6.27.100. Financial institutions must hold non-exempt funds pending exemption claims.

Abstract of Judgment / Lien yes

Recording an abstract of judgment in any county creates a lien on all non-exempt real property in that county (RCW §4.56.190). Lien lasts 10 years and may be renewed.

Turnover Order yes

Washington courts may issue supplemental proceedings requiring debtors to appear and disclose non-exempt assets (RCW §6.32.010).

Writ of Execution yes

Writs of execution allow the sheriff to levy on non-exempt personal property (RCW §6.17.020).

Vehicle Levy yes

Washington exempts one motor vehicle up to $3,250 in equity per RCW §6.15.010. Additional vehicles or equity above the cap may be levied.

Debtor Exemptions

Asset Type	Exemption Amount	Statute
Homestead	$125,000	`RCW §6.13.030`
Motor Vehicle	$3,250 equity	`RCW §6.15.010`
Wages	Per RCW §6.27.150 formula	`RCW §6.27.150`
Personal Property	$3,000 general	`RCW §6.15.010`
Retirement	All ERISA-qualified plans	`RCW §6.15.020`

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Official Washington Resources

Washington Courts – Public Records SearchCivil case records statewide Washington SOS – Corporations DivisionBusiness entity & registered agent Washington County Auditor – Property RecordsReal property & lien filings Revised Code of Washington – LegislatureOfficial state statutes

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Statutes change — verify current law with a licensed Washington attorney before taking collection action.