[WSBAPT] Denied Order Opening Probate because of Non-Redacted SSN

[Carl Gay]

For a very long time, I have always redacted the decedent’s Social Security
number and mother’s maiden name.

Why invite identity theft?



CARL LLOYD GAY



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*From:* wsbapt-bounces at lists.wsbarppt.com <wsbapt-bounces at lists.wsbarppt.com>
*On Behalf Of *Brent Williams-Ruth
*Sent:* Wednesday, September 17, 2025 4:44 PM
*To:* WSBA Probate & Trust Listserv <WSBAPT at lists.wsbarppt.com>
*Subject:* [WSBAPT] Denied Order Opening Probate because of Non-Redacted SSN



I just had Judge Scott in King County deny an order opening probate because
I didn't comply with GR 31 and because I did not redact the SSN from the
death certificate.



First off - question - does anyone redact the SSN before presenting to open
for probate? In the 10 years I have been doing this now, I have never
redacted the SSN. Before COVID, I opened cases in person and would just
hand up a death certificate.  Then came covid and I would upload BUT NOT
FILE;  then came the new KC Script portal and they have the "additional
document" tab where again, I would upload but not file.



GR 31(e)(1) states that you have to redact any personally identifiable
information from documents being FILED with the Court.



Just curious what others do and if you have encountered this before.



Brent


*Brent Williams-Ruth* (pronouns: he/him)
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