[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"page-\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Ftransfer-on-death-deed":3},{"type":4,"data":5},"product",{"product_name":6,"slug":7,"category_slug":8,"order_type":9,"product_version_slug":10,"preview":11,"is_previewable":12,"related_products":13,"related_articles":39,"breadcrumbs":71,"productName":6,"productDescription":-1,"productVersionSlug":10,"localeId":-1,"landerSlug":7,"categorySlug":8,"_cmsSource":77,"hero":78,"quickLinks":104,"page_body":105,"meta_information":436,"sidebar_ad":440,"disclaimer":80,"stateSlug":41},"Transfer on Death Deed","transfer-on-death-deed","estate-planning","Document","todd-005","&lt;lndoc id=&quot;TOD_DEED_COMPREHENSIVE&quot;&gt;      &lt;!-- ===== RECORDING HEADER (replaces former cover page) ===== --&gt;      &lt;table class=&quot;recording-header&quot; width=&quot;100%&quot;&gt;      &lt;tr&gt;        &lt;td width=&quot;60%&quot; style=&quot;vertical-align: top;&quot;&gt;          &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;PREPARED BY:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;          &lt;p&gt;_________________________________&lt;\u002Fp&gt;          &lt;p&gt;_________________________________&lt;\u002Fp&gt;          &lt;p&gt;_________________________________&lt;\u002Fp&gt;          &lt;br&gt;          &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;AFTER RECORDING, RETURN TO:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;                      &lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;            &lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;            &lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;, &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;                  &lt;\u002Ftd&gt;        &lt;td width=&quot;40%&quot; style=&quot;vertical-align: top; padding-left: 10px;&quot;&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;\u002Ftd&gt;      &lt;\u002Ftr&gt;    &lt;\u002Ftable&gt;    &lt;p class=&quot;center small&quot;&gt;Space above this line for recorder&#39;s use&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;!-- STATE-SPECIFIC STATUTORY FORM SELECTION --&gt;      &lt;!-- DEFAULT: GENERIC TEMPLATE WHEN NO STATE IS SELECTED --&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;center&gt;&lt;p class=&#39;title center&#39;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;TRANSFER ON DEATH DEED&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;&lt;\u002Fcenter&gt;&lt;br \u002F&gt;&lt;br \u002F&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;STATE OF GOVERNING LAW:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;This Transfer on Death Deed is executed under and pursuant to the laws of the state where the property is located. The grantor should consult with a local attorney to ensure compliance with applicable state law requirements for transfer on death deeds.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;GRANTOR INFORMATION:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Grantor:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Marital Status:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;          &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Ownership Type:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; Individual&lt;\u002Fp&gt;        &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Grantor&#39;s Address:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;br&gt;      &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;br&gt;      &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;, &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;PROPERTY DESCRIPTION:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Property Address:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;br&gt;      &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;br&gt;      &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;, &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Property Type:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;        &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Legal Description:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;PRIMARY BENEFICIARY:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;        &lt;br&gt;        &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;EXECUTION DETAILS:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Date of Execution:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;NOTICE:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; This is a generic template. The grantor MUST consult with a local attorney to ensure that this deed complies with the specific requirements of the state where the property is located. Different states have different requirements regarding witnesses, notarization, recording deadlines, and other formalities.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;LEGAL EFFECT:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;This Transfer on Death Deed is &lt;strong&gt;revocable&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; during the grantor&#39;s lifetime. The grantor retains full ownership, control, and the right to use, mortgage, sell, or otherwise encumber the property during their lifetime. This deed transfers no present ownership interest and is effective only upon the death of the grantor.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;Upon the grantor&#39;s death, this deed operates to transfer the described property to the named beneficiary without requiring probate, subject to the laws of the state where the property is located.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;SIGNATURE PAGE:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;GRANTOR SIGNATURE:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;I, &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;, declare under penalty of perjury that I am the owner of the above-described property and that I am executing this Transfer on Death Deed freely and voluntarily without coercion or undue influence.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;Grantor Signature: _________________________________ &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; Date: ____________&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;Printed Name: &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt; &lt;span style=&#39;background: #BBBBBB;&#39;&gt;_____________&lt;\u002Fspan&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;        &lt;br&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;div class=&#39;-page-break&#39;&gt;&lt;\u002Fdiv&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;NOTARIZATION DETAILS:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Notary Public:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; _________________________________&lt;\u002Fp&gt;          &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Notarization Method:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; In-Person&lt;\u002Fp&gt;        &lt;br&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;RECORDING INFORMATION:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Recording County\u002FDistrict:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; ____________________&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;State:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; ____________________&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;After Recording:&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;        &lt;br&gt;    &lt;br&gt;        &lt;div class=&#39;-page-break&#39;&gt;&lt;\u002Fdiv&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;center&gt;&lt;p class=&#39;title center&#39;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;&lt;\u002Fcenter&gt;&lt;br \u002F&gt;&lt;br \u002F&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Please read these instructions carefully before signing your deed.&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;1. Review Your Deed&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;Carefully review all of the information in this document, including the legal description of your property and the names of your beneficiaries. Confirm that everything is accurate before proceeding. If you notice an error, do not sign the deed — return to the questionnaire and correct the information first.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;2. Sign According to Your State&#39;s Requirements&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;Requirements for signing a Transfer on Death Deed vary by state. Depending on where your property is located, you may be required to sign in front of a notary public, one or more witnesses, or both. Refer to the state-specific requirements included in this document, and consult a local attorney if you have questions about your state&#39;s execution requirements.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;3. Record the Deed&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;In nearly all states, a Transfer on Death Deed is not effective unless it is recorded with the appropriate county, parish, or ward recorder&#39;s office, register of deeds, or land records office &lt;strong&gt;before the owner&#39;s death&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;. Recording deadlines vary by state — some states require recording within a specific number of days after signing or notarization. Contact your local recording office to confirm their requirements, fees, and accepted formats.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;        &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;4. Keep Copies&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;After recording, request a certified copy of the recorded deed for your records. Keep it in a safe place along with your other important estate planning documents and consider letting your named beneficiary know that the deed exists and where it is recorded.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;5. You Can Change Your Mind&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt;&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;p&gt;A Transfer on Death Deed is revocable. You may revoke or change it at any time before your death by recording a new deed, a revocation instrument, or (in some states) a will provision that meets your state&#39;s requirements. This deed does not affect your ability to sell, mortgage, or otherwise use your property during your lifetime.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;This document does not constitute legal advice.&lt;\u002Fstrong&gt; If you have questions about how these instructions apply to your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.&lt;\u002Fp&gt;    &lt;br&gt;    &lt;br&gt;  &lt;\u002Flndoc&gt;  \n\n",true,[14,18,21,24,27,30,33,36],{"product_name":15,"category":16,"link":17},"Codicil","Estate Planning","\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Fcodicil",{"product_name":19,"category":16,"link":20},"Lady Bird Deed","\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Flady-bird-deed",{"product_name":22,"category":16,"link":23},"Affidavit of Heirship","\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Faffidavit-of-heirship",{"product_name":25,"category":16,"link":26},"Last Will and Testament - with Trusts","\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Flast-will-and-testament---with-trusts",{"product_name":28,"category":16,"link":29},"Pour Over Will","\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Fpour-over-will",{"product_name":31,"category":16,"link":32},"Revocable Living Trust","\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Frevocable-living-trust",{"product_name":34,"category":16,"link":35},"Last Will and Testament","\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Flast-will-and-testament",{"product_name":37,"category":16,"link":38},"Affidavit of Domicile","\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Faffidavit-of-domicile",[40,43,47,51,55,59,63,67],{"title":41,"description":41,"link":42},null,"\u002Fguides\u002Fwhat-is-an-affidavit-heres-how-to-write-one",{"title":44,"description":45,"link":46},"Essential Estate Planning Updates to Make After You Get Divorced","Divorce holds considerable implications not only for your financial future, but also for the future of your loved ones and even your medical care. 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Understanding that distinction is essential, because it is the most common point of confusion among people creating these deeds.",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":128,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[129],{"mode":119,"text":130,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"There are two primary parties involved in creating a transfer on death (TOD) deed:",{"tag":132,"type":133,"start":112,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":134,"listType":149,"direction":41,"textFormat":112},"ul","list",[135,142],{"type":136,"value":112,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":137,"direction":41},"listitem",[138,140],{"mode":119,"text":139,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"Grantor",{"mode":119,"text":141,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112}," - the current property owner who creates, signs, and records the deed. The grantor continues to own and control the property fully — paying taxes, maintaining insurance, and making decisions about the property — until death.",{"type":136,"value":143,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":144,"direction":41},2,[145,147],{"mode":119,"text":146,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"Beneficiary ",{"mode":119,"text":148,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"- the person or entity who will receive the property at the grantor's death. The beneficiary has no ownership interest, no right of access, and no ability to sell or encumber the property while the grantor lives. Their interest only vests — becomes real — at the moment of the grantor's death.","bullet",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":151,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[152],{"mode":119,"text":153,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"To be valid, a transfer on death deed generally must be recorded with the county recorder, register of deeds, or county clerk in the county where the property is located before the grantor's death. An unrecorded TOD deed has no legal effect in most states regardless of when it was signed or notarized.",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":155,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":112},[156],{"mode":119,"text":157,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"Unlike a will, a transfer on death deed transfers property automatically at death — no court involvement required.","default","left","rich-content",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"id":163,"heading":164,"layout":165,"columns":166,"itemStyle":167,"blockName":41,"items":168,"blockType":133,"visibility":208},"6a3b04edbb64c545a315a483","Other property deeds","grid","2","card-with-image",[169,190],{"id":170,"title":171,"description":172,"legacyHtml":41,"image":179,"imageUrl":41,"url":189},"6a3b04f9bb64c545a315a484","Property Deed",{"root":173},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":174,"direction":41},[175],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":176,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[177],{"mode":119,"text":178,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"A property deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of real estate from one party (the grantor) to another (the grantee). It serves as the official record of that transfer and must typically be signed, notarized, and filed with the county recorder's office to be legally effective.",{"id":180,"alt":41,"updatedAt":181,"createdAt":182,"url":183,"thumbnailURL":41,"filename":184,"mimeType":185,"filesize":186,"width":187,"height":188,"focalX":92,"focalY":92},160,"2026-06-23T22:16:18.307Z","2026-06-23T22:16:18.263Z","https:\u002F\u002Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\u002Fshared-cms-main-media.legalnature.com\u002Fgbmc7CvqQM2GkOv0JyO1","gbmc7CvqQM2GkOv0JyO1","image\u002Fwebp",362066,1200,1448,"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fcategories\u002Fproperty\u002Fproperty-deed",{"id":191,"title":192,"description":193,"legacyHtml":41,"image":200,"imageUrl":80,"url":207},"6a3b0503bb64c545a315a485","Quit Claim Deed",{"root":194},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":195,"direction":41},[196],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":197,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[198],{"mode":119,"text":199,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Transfers whatever ownership interest the grantor currently holds in a property without any guarantees that the title is clear or free of liens. It's commonly used between family members, divorcing spouses, or to clear up title issues rather than in standard real estate sales.",{"id":201,"alt":41,"updatedAt":202,"createdAt":203,"url":204,"thumbnailURL":41,"filename":205,"mimeType":185,"filesize":206,"width":187,"height":188,"focalX":92,"focalY":92},159,"2026-06-23T22:15:51.773Z","2026-06-23T22:15:51.692Z","https:\u002F\u002Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\u002Fshared-cms-main-media.legalnature.com\u002F3OCf5FGaSraEbMtdtMq4","3OCf5FGaSraEbMtdtMq4",399460,"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fcategories\u002Fproperty\u002Fquit-claim-deed",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"id":210,"heading":211,"showStates":12,"hideOnStateOverride":12,"blockName":41,"blockType":212,"visibility":213},"6a3b05f109f20a6ae80b00f3","Create a transfer on death deed in your state","state-selector",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"id":215,"content":216,"legacyHtml":41,"variant":158,"anchorId":41,"alignment":159,"ctaText":286,"ctaLink":287,"padding":41,"blockName":41,"blockType":160,"visibility":288},"6a3b04108e47d03be9a21ede",{"root":217},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":218,"direction":41},[219,223,227,232,236,238,242,246,248,252,256,258,262,266,268,272,276,278,282],{"tag":115,"type":116,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":220,"direction":41},[221],{"mode":119,"text":222,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Why use a transfer on death deed?",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":224,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[225],{"mode":119,"text":226,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"For property owners who want to pass a home or land to a specific person without the cost and delay of probate, a transfer on death deed is often the simplest tool available.",{"tag":228,"type":116,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":229,"direction":41},"h4",[230],{"mode":119,"text":231,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"It bypasses probate",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":233,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[234],{"mode":119,"text":235,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Probate is the court-supervised process of validating a will and distributing an estate. It can take months and costs money in court fees and attorney's fees. A properly recorded TOD deed transfers real estate directly to the beneficiary at the grantor's death without any court involvement. The beneficiary simply presents a death certificate and an affidavit of survivorship to the county recorder to complete the transfer.",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":237,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[],{"tag":228,"type":116,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":239,"direction":41},[240],{"mode":119,"text":241,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"You keep full control until you die",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":243,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[244],{"mode":119,"text":245,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Adding a joint tenant to your deed changes the legal ownership of your property right now and once you do, that person has co-ownership rights you cannot unilaterally undo. A TOD deed works differently. The beneficiary has no legal interest in the property during your lifetime. You can sell it, refinance it, take out a second mortgage, or simply change your mind about who should receive it.",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":247,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[],{"tag":228,"type":116,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":249,"direction":41},[250],{"mode":119,"text":251,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"You can revoke it at any time",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":253,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[254],{"mode":119,"text":255,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Notice to your beneficiary is typically not required. You can record a revocation or replace the deed with a new one without anyone's consent.",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":257,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[],{"tag":228,"type":116,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":259,"direction":41},[260],{"mode":119,"text":261,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"The beneficiary may receive a tax advantage",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":263,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[264],{"mode":119,"text":265,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"When property passes through a TOD deed, the beneficiary generally receives a stepped-up cost basis meaning the property's value is reset to its fair market value on the date of the grantor's death, not the original purchase price. This can significantly reduce capital gains tax if the beneficiary later sells. Consulting a tax professional is recommended to understand how this applies to your situation. ",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":267,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[],{"tag":228,"type":116,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":269,"direction":41},[270],{"mode":119,"text":271,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"It is far less expensive than a living trust",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":273,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[274],{"mode":119,"text":275,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"A revocable living trust achieves the same probate-avoidance result but it requires drafting, funding, and ongoing management. For a property owner whose primary goal is passing a single piece of real estate to a specific person, a TOD deed accomplishes that goal at substantially lower cost and complexity.",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":277,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[],{"tag":228,"type":116,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":279,"direction":41},[280],{"mode":119,"text":281,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":112,"version":112},"It keeps the transfer private",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":283,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[284],{"mode":119,"text":285,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"A will that goes through probate becomes a public court record. A TOD deed, once the transfer is complete, is recorded in the public land records, but the beneficiary designation does not pass through the probate court's public docket, offering a meaningful degree of privacy.","Create Your Transfer on Death Deed Today","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fdocuments\u002Fcreate\u002Ftransfer-on-death-deed",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"id":290,"content":291,"legacyHtml":41,"variant":158,"anchorId":41,"alignment":159,"ctaText":41,"ctaLink":41,"padding":41,"blockName":41,"blockType":160,"visibility":303},"6a3c216ed5a37cf0f70f2f8e",{"root":292},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":293,"direction":41},[294,299],{"tag":295,"type":116,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":296,"direction":41},"h3",[297],{"mode":119,"text":298,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Transfer on death deed vs. lady bird deed",{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":300,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[301],{"mode":119,"text":302,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"A lady bird deed, formally called an Enhanced Life Estate Deed, achieves the same core result as a transfer on death deed: the property owner retains full control during their lifetime and the property passes to a named beneficiary at death without probate. The two instruments are functionally similar but structurally different, and they are not available in the same states. Lady Bird deeds are recognized in only a small number of states, currently Florida, Michigan, Texas, Vermont, and West Virginia.",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"id":305,"heading":306,"blockName":41,"items":307,"blockType":348,"visibility":349},"6a3c1bc68104427b3507db96","How to create your transfer on death deed",[308,318,328,338],{"id":309,"title":310,"description":311,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1bd88104427b3507db97","Collect the Required Information",{"root":312},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":313,"direction":41},[314],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":315,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[316],{"mode":119,"text":317,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"The deed must include your full legal name (exactly as it appears on your current title), the property's complete legal description (not just the street address), and the full legal name of each beneficiary. If you are naming an alternate beneficiary, include their full name as well.",{"id":319,"title":320,"description":321,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1c5a8104427b3507db98","Complete Our Intuitive Form Online",{"root":322},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":323,"direction":41},[324],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":325,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[326],{"mode":119,"text":327,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"LegalNature's questionnaire guides you through each required field and builds a state-specific document based on your answers.",{"id":329,"title":330,"description":331,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1c9f8104427b3507db99","Sign and Witness Before a Notary",{"root":332},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":333,"direction":41},[334],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":335,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[336],{"mode":119,"text":337,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Transfer on death deeds require the grantor's signature to be notarized. Some states, including California, Illinois, and New York, also require witnesses to be present at signing and to sign the deed themselves. Do not sign the deed before you are in front of the notary.",{"id":339,"title":340,"description":341,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1cd78104427b3507db9a","Record the Deed",{"root":342},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":343,"direction":41},[344],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":345,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[346],{"mode":119,"text":347,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"A signed and notarized TOD deed that is never recorded has no legal effect. Take the original signed deed to the county recorder, register of deeds, or county clerk in the county where the property is located.","steps",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"id":351,"heading":352,"description":353,"legacyHtml":41,"image":360,"imageUrl":41,"layout":370,"blockName":41,"blockType":371,"visibility":372},"6a3c3050495e8c3caf978e64","Why Use LegalNature?",{"root":354},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":355,"direction":41},[356],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":357,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[358],{"mode":119,"text":359,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"LegalNature offers guidance to navigate the nuances of property transfer across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. LegalNature offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're not happy, then we're not happy. Give us a call and let us help.",{"id":361,"alt":41,"updatedAt":362,"createdAt":363,"url":364,"thumbnailURL":41,"filename":365,"mimeType":366,"filesize":367,"width":368,"height":369,"focalX":92,"focalY":92},161,"2026-06-24T17:44:47.765Z","2026-06-24T17:44:47.621Z","https:\u002F\u002Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\u002Fshared-cms-main-media.legalnature.com\u002FxorsJrDS4WXw8wn4Cyux-1.xorsJrDS4WXw8wn4Cyux","xorsJrDS4WXw8wn4Cyux-1.xorsJrDS4WXw8wn4Cyux","image\u002Fjpeg",4582856,6000,4000,"image-right","media-content",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"id":374,"heading":375,"background":376,"blockName":41,"items":377,"blockType":428,"visibility":429},"6a3c1d4b8104427b3507db9e","Frequently Asked Questions","white",[378,388,398,408,418],{"id":379,"question":380,"answer":381,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1d508104427b3507db9f","Does a transfer on death deed avoid probate?",{"root":382},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":383,"direction":41},[384],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":385,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[386],{"mode":119,"text":387,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Yes. A properly signed, notarized, and recorded transfer on death deed transfers real estate to the named beneficiary at the grantor's death without probate court involvement. The beneficiary typically does not need to open an estate or obtain a court order as to the deeded property. In most states, the beneficiary presents a certified death certificate and an affidavit of survivorship to the county recorder to complete the transfer and re-title the property in their name.",{"id":389,"question":390,"answer":391,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1d7b8104427b3507dba0","Can a transfer on death deed be contested?",{"root":392},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":393,"direction":41},[394],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":395,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[396],{"mode":119,"text":397,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Yes, but on narrower grounds than a will. A TOD deed can be challenged for fraud, undue influence, lack of mental capacity at the time of signing, or improper execution; for example, failure to notarize or, in states that require it, failure to have witnesses present. Because a TOD deed transfers property outside of probate, it does not go through the court-supervised review that a will does, which can make challenges more difficult.",{"id":399,"question":400,"answer":401,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1d9f8104427b3507dba1","How do I revoke a transfer on death deed?",{"root":402},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":403,"direction":41},[404],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":405,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[406],{"mode":119,"text":407,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"There are three ways to revoke a recorded TOD deed. First, you can complete and record a formal deed revocation document. Second, you can create and record a new TOD deed that names different beneficiaries — the later-recorded deed supersedes the earlier one. Third, you can transfer or convey the property to a new owner or into a trust before your death; if the deed or other transfer document is recorded, the TOD deed has no effect on that property at death.",{"id":409,"question":410,"answer":411,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1dba8104427b3507dba2","What is the difference between a transfer on death deed and a beneficiary deed?",{"root":412},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":413,"direction":41},[414],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":415,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[416],{"mode":119,"text":417,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"There is no functional difference — they are the same legal instrument with different names in different states. States such as Arizona and Colorado call it a beneficiary deed. Other states, including California and Ohio, call it a transfer on death deed or a revocable transfer on death deed. Some states use the term \"deed upon death.\"",{"id":419,"question":420,"answer":421,"legacyHtml":41},"6a3c1ded8104427b3507dba3","Can a transfer on death deed be used if there are two owners on the property?",{"root":422},{"type":110,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":423,"direction":41},[424],{"type":123,"format":80,"indent":111,"version":112,"children":425,"direction":41,"textStyle":80,"textFormat":111},[426],{"mode":119,"text":427,"type":121,"style":80,"detail":111,"format":111,"version":112},"Yes, but each owner must execute a separate TOD deed to cover their ownership share. A TOD deed only transfers the grantor's interest — it cannot convey a co-owner's share without that co-owner's participation.","faqs",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"id":431,"headline":432,"text":433,"image":41,"ctaText":41,"blockName":41,"blockType":434,"visibility":435},"6a3c1e79350534d764a7c75d","Create your transfer on death deed today","Transfer your property on death and avoid probate. Prepare a state-compliant transfer on death deed using LegalNature's intuitive online forms.","get-started",{"hideOnMobile":41,"hideOnDesktop":41},{"title":437,"description":438,"keyword":80,"og_image":439},"Transfer on Death Deed | Create and Print | LegalNature","A transfer on death deed lets you pass real estate directly to a beneficiary when you die — no probate required. Create a state-specific TOD deed online with LegalNature.","https:\u002F\u002Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\u002Fshared-cms-main-media.legalnature.com\u002FTransfer%20on%20death%20deed%20thumb.jpg",{"headline":441,"image":442,"imageUrl":41,"steps":443},"Create your transfer on death deed",{"id":94,"alt":41,"updatedAt":95,"createdAt":96,"url":97,"thumbnailURL":41,"filename":98,"mimeType":88,"filesize":99,"width":100,"height":101,"focalX":92,"focalY":92},[444,447,450],{"id":445,"text":446},"6a3c1f5773e62dbfffe5495b","Complete our online form",{"id":448,"text":449},"6a3c1f6273e62dbfffe5495c","Download and print the completed deed",{"id":451,"text":452},"6a3c1f6e73e62dbfffe5495d","Sign, notarize, and record your deed"]