Washington Notice to Pay Rent or Quit — Free Generator & 2026 Requirements

Updated July 2026 · Reviewed against Washington statutes

Before a landlord in Washington can start an eviction for unpaid rent, state law requires a formal written demand — commonly called a notice to pay rent or quit. In Washington, tenants must be given 14 days to pay or vacate. Use the free generator below to create a ready-to-serve notice in about two minutes.

Required notice period14 days
StatuteRCW 59.18.057
Applies toNonpayment of rent
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Your notice

How to serve this notice in Washington

1Fill in the form above and print two copies of the finished notice — one to serve, one for your records.
2Serve it using a legally accepted method (personal delivery, substituted service, posting + mailing, or certified mail). Note the date, time, and method.
3Wait out the full notice period before taking any further action. If the issue isn't resolved, consult a local landlord-tenant attorney about next steps.
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Frequently asked questions

How many days' notice is required for nonpayment of rent in Washington?

Washington requires 14 days' written notice before an eviction can be filed for nonpayment (RCW 59.18.057).

Can I email or text the notice to my tenant in Washington?

Generally no. Most states, including Washington, require formal service — personal delivery, delivery to a suitable person at the premises, posting plus mailing, or certified mail. Check your statute for the accepted methods and keep proof of service.

What happens if the tenant pays after receiving the notice?

If the tenant pays the full amount demanded within the notice period, the tenancy generally continues and you cannot proceed with an eviction based on that notice. Partial payments can complicate or void the notice in some states — decide in advance whether to accept them.

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Disclaimer: This website provides general information and self-help templates, not legal advice, and is not a substitute for a licensed attorney. Landlord–tenant laws change frequently and local ordinances may impose additional requirements. Verify all deadlines and statutes before serving any notice, and consult an attorney for your specific situation.