Can You Sign Legal Documents in WA State with Crayons? What About Colored Pencils, Erasable Ink, or Crazy Ink Colors? Let’s Talk!
- Kendra Marroquin
- Apr 7
- 2 min read
Sure, signing your will in glitter gel pen might add some flair, but will it hold up in Washington State? Let’s break it down!
Crayons – A No-Go for Legal Docs
While crayons may be great for coloring outside the lines, they’re terrible for legal signatures. Crayons smudge, fade, and aren’t permanent- three strikes that could make your document questionable or even invalid in court.
Colored Pencils – Still Not a Good Idea
While they don’t melt in the sun like crayons, colored pencils can still fade over time and are easy to erase or alter. Washington courts and county recording offices require clear, legible, and permanent signatures, so skip the colored pencils.
Erasable Ink Pens – Tempting, But Nope!
Washington doesn’t have a specific law banning erasable ink, but using it on legal documents could spell disaster. Why? Because if your signature can vanish with a little friction, so can your legal proof. Stick to permanent ink.
Crazy Ink Colors – Fun, But Risky
There’s no law in WA State saying you must use black or blue ink, but here’s why those colors are recommended:
Black & blue ink scan clearly and are accepted by all offices.
Red, green, purple, or neon ink? Might not copy or record well.
Some courts and title companies reject hard-to-read colors to prevent errors.
What’s the Best Choice for Legal Documents?
If you want your important documents to be legible, permanent, and accepted without question, use black or blue ink. It’s not the law, but it’s the smart choice! And let’s be real, there’s a reason lawyers don’t sign contracts in bubblegum pink ink.
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