Is a loan obligation signed by a minor enforceable in Washington?

Full question:

I am 17 years old living alone in the state of Washington. I had signed a written obligation and had taken a loan for my higher studies. However, I was not prompt in repaying the loan. Is the written obligation signed by me enforceable as I was a minor at the time of availing the loan?

  • Category: Minors
  • Subcategory: Age of Majority
  • Date:
  • State: Washington

Answer:

In Washington, a minor's written obligation for an educational loan can be enforceable under certain conditions. Specifically, if the minor is sixteen years or older and the educational institution has certified in writing that the minor is enrolled or accepted for enrollment before the loan was made, then the obligation is enforceable as if the minor were an adult. This is outlined in Rev. Code Wash. (ARCW) § 26.30.020.

Additionally, according to Rev. Code Wash. (ARCW) § 26.28.010, individuals are generally considered to be of full age for legal purposes at eighteen years old, but there are exceptions for educational loans.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

In Washington, minors can take out loans, especially for educational purposes, under certain conditions. If the minor is at least sixteen years old and the educational institution certifies their enrollment, the loan may be enforceable. This means that while minors generally cannot enter into contracts, there are specific exceptions for educational loans that allow them to do so legally.