Washington is a community property state, which means it views all property acquired during a marriage as belonging equally to both parties. As we’re not talking about marriage, the situation is somewhat different. Though courts do use similar reasoning for dividing the property.

Is Washington state a community property state for divorce?

Is Washington a Community Property State? Yes, Washington is among the handful of western states that follows a community property approach to dividing a couple’s property in a divorce. Most states have enacted equitable distribution laws, but Washington is not one of them.

Can a married person buy a house alone in Washington state?

In a common-law state, you can apply for a mortgage without your spouse. Your lender won’t be able to consider your spouse’s financial circumstances or credit while determining your eligibility. If you and your partner were to split up, the home would be yours alone; you wouldn’t have to split it with your spouse.

How is community property defined in Washington State?

Community property defined — Management and control. Property not acquired or owned, as prescribed in RCW 26.16.010 and 26.16.020, acquired after marriage or after registration of a state registered domestic partnership by either domestic partner or either husband or wife or both, is community property.

How is marital property divided in Washington State?

Washington is one of a few remaining community property states in the country, which means items considered marital property are generally split equally.

Where can a spouse declare a community property?

The community property states are Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. Spouses in Alaska can also declare that certain assets are community property assets.

When is property not owned in RCW 26.16.030?

Property not acquired or owned, as prescribed in RCW 26.16.010 and 26.16.020, acquired after marriage or after registration of a state registered domestic partnership by either domestic partner or either husband or wife or both, is community property.