Tangible Personal Property List

What is a tangible personal property list?

This is a specific list attached to a will. Think of this as a gift list. RCW 11.12.260(1) refers to a "writing that directs disposition of tangible personal property not otherwise specifically disposed of by the will or trust other than property used primarily in trade or business." Tangible items are typically those that can be touched, held, or felt. ​

What items may I include on this list?

RCW 11.12.260(3) states that tangible personal property refers to "articles of personal or household use or ornament," such as: 

• Furniture
• Furnishings
• Automobiles
• Boats
• Airplanes
• Jewelry
• Precious metals in any tangible form (bullion or coins)

​This list must describe items and who receives the item(s) with reasonable certainty. This means you must be specific in how you describe the item.
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According to the Washington state law, items such as the following do not constitute tangible personal property:

• Mobile homes
• Intangible property
• Money that is normal currency
• Bank accounts
• Documents of title
• Securities

How do I create this list?

A will must refer to the list, while the list must be in the "handwriting of, or signed by, the testator or grantor." RCW 11.12.260(1). As stated above, the writing must describe "the items and the recipients of the property with reasonable certainty." RCW 11.12.260(1).