Can Part of the Estate Property Be Distributed Before Probate Is Completed?
Yes. A nonintervention personal representative, or a full intervention personal representative upon court order, may make partial distribution of the estate assets after the creditor period has elapsed (four months after first date of publication of notice to creditors) but before closing the probate, provided that such distributions to not impair full payment of the claims of creditors or other beneficiaries. RCW 11.72.006.
A nonintervention personal representative has all the powers granted to a trustee under RCW 11.98.070, 11.100, 11.102, which includes the right to make interim partial distributions (RCW 11.98.070(15)). RCW 11.68.090.
Specific bequests may be delivered at a prudent time by a nonintervention personal representative, or by a full intervention personal representative upon court order, provided the interests of creditors and other beneficiaries or heirs are not impaired. RCW 11.72.002.