[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"guide-payload-what-is-a-transfer-on-death-deed":3},{"id":4,"cmsSource":5,"title":6,"slug":7,"butterSlug":8,"category":9,"state":8,"legalPage":10,"author":408,"tldr":418,"costBreakdown":425,"summary":424,"featuredImage":426,"featuredImageUrl":8,"featuredImageAlt":8,"hero":433,"headerOverride":435,"tocTitle":8,"hideToc":8,"body":437,"categories":848,"tags":849,"primaryProduct":850,"meta":851,"updatedAt":853,"createdAt":854,"_status":407},591,"payload","What Is a Transfer on Death Deed?","what-is-a-transfer-on-death-deed",null,"deeds",{"id":11,"cmsSource":5,"title":12,"slug":13,"productSlug":8,"documentType":14,"butterSlug":8,"previewPath":15,"relatedGuide":8,"quickLinks":16,"hero":17,"sections":54,"sidebarAd":380,"meta":393,"disclaimer":8,"legacyDisclaimerHtml":8,"updatedAt":405,"createdAt":406,"_status":407},164,"Transfer on Death Deed","transfer-on-death-deed","other","",[],{"landerVariant":18,"headline":12,"headlineAccent":15,"subtitle":19,"legacySubtitleHtml":8,"checkmarkText":8,"desktopImage":32,"mobileImage":43,"desktopImageUrl":8,"mobileImageUrl":8,"ctaType":52,"ctaText":8,"ctaLink":53},"design-test-v3",{"root":20},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":24,"direction":8},"root",0,1,[25],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":27,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},"paragraph",[28],{"mode":29,"text":30,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"normal","A transfer on death deed lets you pass real estate directly to a beneficiary when you die, and avoid probate.","text",{"id":33,"alt":8,"updatedAt":34,"createdAt":35,"url":36,"thumbnailURL":8,"filename":37,"mimeType":38,"filesize":39,"width":40,"height":41,"focalX":42,"focalY":42},211,"2026-07-27T11:39:33.029Z","2026-07-27T11:39:32.812Z","https:\u002F\u002Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\u002Fshared-cms-main-media.legalnature.com\u002FToDD%20preview-1.png","ToDD preview-1.png","image\u002Fpng",894318,1319,1592,50,{"id":44,"alt":8,"updatedAt":45,"createdAt":46,"url":47,"thumbnailURL":8,"filename":48,"mimeType":38,"filesize":49,"width":50,"height":51,"focalX":42,"focalY":42},212,"2026-07-27T11:39:39.609Z","2026-07-27T11:39:39.565Z","https:\u002F\u002Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\u002Fshared-cms-main-media.legalnature.com\u002FToDD%20preview%20mobile-1.png","ToDD preview mobile-1.png",85122,1134,690,"custom-link","\u002Fdocuments\u002Fcreate\u002Ftransfer-on-death-deed",[55,105,152,158,233,248,294,317,374],{"id":56,"content":57,"legacyHtml":8,"variant":101,"anchorId":8,"alignment":102,"ctaText":8,"ctaLink":8,"padding":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":103,"visibility":104},"6a3b01a375186f5bf31b7819",{"root":58},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":59,"direction":8},[60,66,70,74,93,97],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":63,"direction":8},"h2","heading",[64],{"mode":29,"text":65,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"What is a transfer on death deed?",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":67,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[68],{"mode":29,"text":69,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A transfer on death deed is a revocable, non-possessory legal instrument. \"Revocable\" means you can change or cancel it at any time before your death. \"Non-possessory\" means the beneficiary you name receives no rights to the property while you are alive. Understanding that distinction is essential, because it is the most common point of confusion among people creating these deeds.",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":71,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[72],{"mode":29,"text":73,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"There are two primary parties involved in creating a transfer on death (TOD) deed:",{"tag":75,"type":76,"start":23,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":77,"listType":92,"direction":8,"textFormat":23},"ul","list",[78,85],{"type":79,"value":23,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":80,"direction":8},"listitem",[81,83],{"mode":29,"text":82,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Grantor",{"mode":29,"text":84,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," - 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":79,"value":86,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":87,"direction":8},2,[88,90],{"mode":29,"text":89,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Beneficiary ",{"mode":29,"text":91,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"- 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":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":94,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[95],{"mode":29,"text":96,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":98,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":23},[99],{"mode":29,"text":100,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Unlike a will, a transfer on death deed transfers property automatically at death — no court involvement required.","default","left","rich-content",{"hideOnMobile":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":106,"heading":107,"layout":108,"columns":109,"itemStyle":110,"blockName":8,"items":111,"blockType":76,"visibility":151},"6a3b04edbb64c545a315a483","Other property deeds","grid","2","card-with-image",[112,133],{"id":113,"title":114,"description":115,"legacyHtml":8,"image":122,"imageUrl":8,"url":132},"6a3b04f9bb64c545a315a484","Property Deed",{"root":116},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":117,"direction":8},[118],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":119,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[120],{"mode":29,"text":121,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":123,"alt":8,"updatedAt":124,"createdAt":125,"url":126,"thumbnailURL":8,"filename":127,"mimeType":128,"filesize":129,"width":130,"height":131,"focalX":42,"focalY":42},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":134,"title":135,"description":136,"legacyHtml":8,"image":143,"imageUrl":15,"url":150},"6a3b0503bb64c545a315a485","Quit Claim Deed",{"root":137},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":138,"direction":8},[139],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":140,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[141],{"mode":29,"text":142,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":144,"alt":8,"updatedAt":145,"createdAt":146,"url":147,"thumbnailURL":8,"filename":148,"mimeType":128,"filesize":149,"width":130,"height":131,"focalX":42,"focalY":42},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":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":153,"heading":154,"showStates":155,"hideOnStateOverride":155,"blockName":8,"blockType":156,"visibility":157},"6a3b05f109f20a6ae80b00f3","Create a transfer on death deed in your state",true,"state-selector",{"hideOnMobile":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":159,"content":160,"legacyHtml":8,"variant":101,"anchorId":8,"alignment":102,"ctaText":230,"ctaLink":231,"padding":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":103,"visibility":232},"6a3b04108e47d03be9a21ede",{"root":161},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":162,"direction":8},[163,167,171,176,180,182,186,190,192,196,200,202,206,210,212,216,220,222,226],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":164,"direction":8},[165],{"mode":29,"text":166,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Why use a transfer on death deed?",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":168,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[169],{"mode":29,"text":170,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":172,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":173,"direction":8},"h4",[174],{"mode":29,"text":175,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"It bypasses probate",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":177,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[178],{"mode":29,"text":179,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":181,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[],{"tag":172,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":183,"direction":8},[184],{"mode":29,"text":185,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"You keep full control until you die",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":187,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[188],{"mode":29,"text":189,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":191,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[],{"tag":172,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":193,"direction":8},[194],{"mode":29,"text":195,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"You can revoke it at any time",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":197,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[198],{"mode":29,"text":199,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":201,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[],{"tag":172,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":203,"direction":8},[204],{"mode":29,"text":205,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"The beneficiary may receive a tax advantage",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":207,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[208],{"mode":29,"text":209,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":211,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[],{"tag":172,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":213,"direction":8},[214],{"mode":29,"text":215,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"It is far less expensive than a living trust",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":217,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[218],{"mode":29,"text":219,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":221,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[],{"tag":172,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":223,"direction":8},[224],{"mode":29,"text":225,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"It keeps the transfer private",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":227,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[228],{"mode":29,"text":229,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":234,"content":235,"legacyHtml":8,"variant":101,"anchorId":8,"alignment":102,"ctaText":8,"ctaLink":8,"padding":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":103,"visibility":247},"6a3c216ed5a37cf0f70f2f8e",{"root":236},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":237,"direction":8},[238,243],{"tag":239,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":240,"direction":8},"h3",[241],{"mode":29,"text":242,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Transfer on death deed vs. lady bird deed",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":244,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[245],{"mode":29,"text":246,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":249,"heading":250,"blockName":8,"items":251,"blockType":292,"visibility":293},"6a3c1bc68104427b3507db96","How to create your transfer on death deed",[252,262,272,282],{"id":253,"title":254,"description":255,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1bd88104427b3507db97","Collect the Required Information",{"root":256},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":257,"direction":8},[258],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":259,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[260],{"mode":29,"text":261,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":263,"title":264,"description":265,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1c5a8104427b3507db98","Complete Our Intuitive Form Online",{"root":266},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":267,"direction":8},[268],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":269,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[270],{"mode":29,"text":271,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"LegalNature's questionnaire guides you through each required field and builds a state-specific document based on your answers.",{"id":273,"title":274,"description":275,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1c9f8104427b3507db99","Sign and Witness Before a Notary",{"root":276},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":277,"direction":8},[278],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":279,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[280],{"mode":29,"text":281,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":283,"title":284,"description":285,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1cd78104427b3507db9a","Record the Deed",{"root":286},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":287,"direction":8},[288],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":289,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[290],{"mode":29,"text":291,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":295,"heading":296,"description":297,"legacyHtml":8,"image":304,"imageUrl":8,"layout":314,"blockName":8,"blockType":315,"visibility":316},"6a3c3050495e8c3caf978e64","Why Use LegalNature?",{"root":298},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":299,"direction":8},[300],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":301,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[302],{"mode":29,"text":303,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":305,"alt":8,"updatedAt":306,"createdAt":307,"url":308,"thumbnailURL":8,"filename":309,"mimeType":310,"filesize":311,"width":312,"height":313,"focalX":42,"focalY":42},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":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":318,"heading":319,"background":320,"blockName":8,"items":321,"blockType":372,"visibility":373},"6a3c1d4b8104427b3507db9e","Frequently Asked Questions","white",[322,332,342,352,362],{"id":323,"question":324,"answer":325,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1d508104427b3507db9f","Does a transfer on death deed avoid probate?",{"root":326},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":327,"direction":8},[328],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":329,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[330],{"mode":29,"text":331,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":333,"question":334,"answer":335,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1d7b8104427b3507dba0","Can a transfer on death deed be contested?",{"root":336},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":337,"direction":8},[338],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":339,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[340],{"mode":29,"text":341,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":343,"question":344,"answer":345,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1d9f8104427b3507dba1","How do I revoke a transfer on death deed?",{"root":346},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":347,"direction":8},[348],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":349,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[350],{"mode":29,"text":351,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":353,"question":354,"answer":355,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1dba8104427b3507dba2","What is the difference between a transfer on death deed and a beneficiary deed?",{"root":356},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":357,"direction":8},[358],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":359,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[360],{"mode":29,"text":361,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":363,"question":364,"answer":365,"legacyHtml":8},"6a3c1ded8104427b3507dba3","Can a transfer on death deed be used if there are two owners on the property?",{"root":366},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":367,"direction":8},[368],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":369,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[370],{"mode":29,"text":371,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"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":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":375,"headline":376,"text":377,"image":8,"ctaText":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":378,"visibility":379},"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":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"headline":381,"image":382,"imageUrl":8,"steps":383},"Create your transfer on death deed",{"id":44,"alt":8,"updatedAt":45,"createdAt":46,"url":47,"thumbnailURL":8,"filename":48,"mimeType":38,"filesize":49,"width":50,"height":51,"focalX":42,"focalY":42},[384,387,390],{"id":385,"text":386},"6a3c1f5773e62dbfffe5495b","Complete our online form",{"id":388,"text":389},"6a3c1f6273e62dbfffe5495c","Download and print the completed deed",{"id":391,"text":392},"6a3c1f6e73e62dbfffe5495d","Sign, notarize, and record your deed",{"title":394,"description":395,"keyword":8,"ogImage":396},"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.",{"id":397,"alt":8,"updatedAt":398,"createdAt":399,"url":400,"thumbnailURL":8,"filename":401,"mimeType":310,"filesize":402,"width":403,"height":404,"focalX":42,"focalY":42},168,"2026-06-25T17:09:02.864Z","2026-06-25T17:09:02.781Z","https:\u002F\u002Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\u002Fshared-cms-main-media.legalnature.com\u002FTransfer%20on%20death%20deed%20thumb.jpg","Transfer on death deed thumb.jpg",547331,1862,996,"2026-10-07T16:46:23.531Z","2026-06-23T21:41:43.558Z","published",{"id":23,"name":409,"credentials":410,"role":411,"bio":8,"headshot":8,"barAdmissions":412,"linkedin":8,"website":8,"updatedAt":417,"createdAt":417},"Spenser Nampon","Esq.","attorney",[413],{"id":414,"jurisdiction":415,"admittedYear":416},"69f55b17a73efb182e6e4306","Florida",2023,"2026-05-02T02:02:30.486Z",{"root":419},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":420,"direction":8},[421],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":422,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[423],{"mode":29,"text":424,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A transfer on death deed lets you pass real estate to a beneficiary without probate. Learn how it works, what it costs, and if it's right for you.",[],{"id":11,"alt":8,"updatedAt":427,"createdAt":428,"url":429,"thumbnailURL":8,"filename":430,"mimeType":128,"filesize":431,"width":130,"height":432,"focalX":42,"focalY":42},"2026-06-24T19:07:48.447Z","2026-06-24T19:07:48.368Z","https:\u002F\u002Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\u002Fshared-cms-main-media.legalnature.com\u002FXI8L5GyzTDmBde1TGdmg","XI8L5GyzTDmBde1TGdmg",105630,800,{"overline":8,"title":6,"subtitle":434},"Create your transfer on death deed today!",{"title":8,"link":8,"cta":436},"Get Started",[438,461,488,498,502,519,524,612,617,652,665,682,691,694,707,726,735,751,822,846],{"id":439,"content":440,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d47786c96519e5d48fc5",{"root":441},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":442,"direction":8},[443],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":444,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[445,447,458],{"mode":29,"text":446,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A ",{"id":448,"type":449,"fields":450,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":454,"children":455,"direction":8},"6a47d4b26a77e7e2862f5d3e","link",{"url":451,"newTab":452,"linkType":453},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Ftransfer-on-death-deed",false,"custom",3,[456],{"mode":29,"text":457,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"transfer on death deed",{"mode":29,"text":459,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," is a legal document that lets you name a beneficiary to inherit your real estate automatically when you die, without that property going through probate. Also called a TOD deed or a beneficiary deed, it takes effect only at your death, and you keep full ownership and control of the property for as long as you're alive.","guide-rich-text",{"id":462,"content":463,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d4be86c96519e5d48fc6",{"root":464},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":465,"direction":8},[466,470,478,482,486],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":467,"direction":8},[468],{"mode":29,"text":469,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"How a Transfer on Death Deed Works",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":471,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[472,474,476],{"mode":29,"text":473,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A transfer on death deed works by letting you, the property owner, sign and record a deed now that only takes effect when you die. ",{"mode":29,"text":475,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"The deed has no effect on your ownership or control of the property while you're alive.",{"mode":29,"text":477,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," You can still sell it, refinance it, rent it out, or change your mind entirely.",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":479,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[480],{"mode":29,"text":481,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Until your death, your named beneficiary has no legal claim to the property at all. They don't need to sign the deed, and in most states you aren't required to tell them it exists. You can revoke or replace the deed at any time, for any reason, as long as you're alive and mentally competent to do so. Once you die, and assuming the deed was properly signed and recorded beforehand, ownership passes directly to your beneficiary without a probate proceeding.",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":483,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[484],{"mode":29,"text":485,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"This revocability is one of the biggest differences between a transfer on death deed and an outright gift of property. A gift transfers ownership immediately and generally can't be undone. ",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":487,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[],{"id":489,"title":8,"body":490,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":497},"6a47d54586c96519e5d48fc9",{"root":491},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":492,"direction":8},[493],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":494,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":23},[495],{"mode":29,"text":496,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"A transfer on death deed keeps you in full control until the moment of your death.","guide-callout",{"id":499,"variant":500,"productName":12,"link":231,"cta":436,"message":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":501},"6a47d4cf86c96519e5d48fc7","document","guide-product-cta",{"id":503,"content":504,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d51186c96519e5d48fc8",{"root":505},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":506,"direction":8},[507,511,515],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":508,"direction":8},[509],{"mode":29,"text":510,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"What a Transfer on Death Deed Avoids",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":512,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[513],{"mode":29,"text":514,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Probate is the court process used to distribute a deceased person's property, and it can be slow, public, and expensive. Depending on the state and the size of the estate, probate can take months or even years to resolve, with court costs and attorney fees paid out of the estate before anything reaches your heirs.",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":516,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[517],{"mode":29,"text":518,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A transfer on death deed moves real estate outside of that process entirely. Because the deed already names a beneficiary and takes effect automatically at death, there's no court involvement needed to transfer title.",{"id":520,"body":521,"linkText":436,"linkUrl":522,"blockName":8,"blockType":523},"6a47d58686c96519e5d48fca","Read more about the probate process.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fguides\u002Funderstanding-the-probate-process","guide-featured-link",{"id":525,"content":526,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d5a386c96519e5d48fcb",{"root":527},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":528,"direction":8},[529,533,555,589,593],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":530,"direction":8},[531],{"mode":29,"text":532,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Transfer on Death Deed vs. Will vs. Living Trust",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":534,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[535,537,544,546,553],{"mode":29,"text":536,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A transfer on death deed, a ",{"id":538,"type":449,"fields":539,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":454,"children":541,"direction":8},"6a47d5d06a77e7e2862f5d42",{"url":540,"newTab":452,"linkType":453},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Flast-will-and-testament",[542],{"mode":29,"text":543,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"will",{"mode":29,"text":545,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},", and a ",{"id":547,"type":449,"fields":548,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":454,"children":550,"direction":8},"6a47d5dc6a77e7e2862f5d43",{"url":549,"newTab":452,"linkType":453},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Frevocable-living-trust",[551],{"mode":29,"text":552,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"living trust",{"mode":29,"text":554,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," can all be part of an estate plan, but they work differently and aren't interchangeable.",{"tag":75,"type":76,"start":23,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":556,"listType":92,"direction":8},[557,563,569,575,582],{"type":79,"value":23,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":558,"direction":8},[559,561],{"mode":29,"text":560,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Scope:",{"mode":29,"text":562,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," A transfer on death deed only covers the specific piece of real estate named in it. A will or living trust can cover real estate along with bank accounts, personal belongings, and other assets.",{"type":79,"value":86,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":564,"direction":8},[565,567],{"mode":29,"text":566,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Probate:",{"mode":29,"text":568,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," A transfer on death deed and a properly funded living trust both avoid probate for the assets they cover. A will does not avoid probate; it's the document probate court uses to guide distribution.",{"type":79,"value":454,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":570,"direction":8},[571,573],{"mode":29,"text":572,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Cost and complexity:",{"mode":29,"text":574,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," A transfer on death deed is typically simpler and less expensive to create than a living trust, which usually requires retitling assets into the trust's name.",{"type":79,"value":576,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":577,"direction":8},4,[578,580],{"mode":29,"text":579,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Control during your lifetime:",{"mode":29,"text":581,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," All three let you keep control of your property while you're alive, but a living trust involves more ongoing administration since assets are technically owned by the trust.",{"type":79,"value":583,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":584,"direction":8},5,[585,587],{"mode":29,"text":586,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Revocability:",{"mode":29,"text":588,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," A transfer on death deed and a revocable living trust can both be changed or canceled during your lifetime. A will can also be changed at any time before death.",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":590,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[591],{"mode":29,"text":592,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"The bottom line: a transfer on death deed is a narrow, low-cost tool built specifically for real estate. It works well alongside a will, which can still direct what happens to everything else you own, but it isn't a full replacement for a comprehensive estate plan.",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":594,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[595,597,602,604,610],{"mode":29,"text":596,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"If you're weighing a transfer on death deed against a ",{"id":598,"type":449,"fields":599,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":454,"children":600,"direction":8},"6a47d5bb6a77e7e2862f5d40",{"url":549,"newTab":452,"linkType":453},[601],{"mode":29,"text":552,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},{"mode":29,"text":603,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," or want a ",{"id":605,"type":449,"fields":606,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":454,"children":607,"direction":8},"6a47d5bb6a77e7e2862f5d41",{"url":540,"newTab":452,"linkType":453},[608],{"mode":29,"text":609,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"last will",{"mode":29,"text":611,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," to cover the rest of your estate, LegalNature offers both alongside transfer on death deed documents.",{"id":613,"variant":500,"productName":614,"link":615,"cta":436,"message":616,"blockName":8,"blockType":501},"6a47d7fb86c96519e5d48fcc","Estate Planning Documents","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning","Check out our library of estate planning documents.",{"id":618,"content":619,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d82e86c96519e5d48fcd",{"root":620},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":621,"direction":8},[622,626,630],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":623,"direction":8},[624],{"mode":29,"text":625,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Where Transfer on Death Deeds Are Available",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":627,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[628],{"mode":29,"text":629,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Most states allow transfer on death deeds, but availability isn't universal, and the exact list changes as state legislatures act. Because state law in this area continues to evolve, the safest way to confirm whether your state allows a transfer on death deed, and what its specific requirements are, is to check current, state-specific information rather than relying on a fixed number.",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":631,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[632,634,641,643,650],{"mode":29,"text":633,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A small number of states that don't offer a standard transfer on death deed instead allow a similar tool known as a ",{"id":635,"type":449,"fields":636,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":454,"children":638,"direction":8},"6a47d86f6a77e7e2862f5d45",{"url":637,"newTab":452,"linkType":453},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fcategories\u002Festate-planning\u002Flady-bird-deed",[639],{"mode":29,"text":640,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Lady Bird deed",{"mode":29,"text":642,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},", which lets an owner name a beneficiary while retaining even broader control over the property during their lifetime. If you want to see how the two compare in detail, LegalNature's ",{"id":644,"type":449,"fields":645,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":454,"children":647,"direction":8},"6a47d8366a77e7e2862f5d44",{"url":646,"newTab":452,"linkType":453},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.legalnature.com\u002Fguides\u002Ftransfer-on-death-vs-lady-bird",[648],{"mode":29,"text":649,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"TOD deed vs. Lady Bird deed guide",{"mode":29,"text":651,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," breaks down the differences.",{"id":653,"content":654,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d8d886c96519e5d48fce",{"root":655},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":656,"direction":8},[657,661],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":658,"direction":8},[659],{"mode":29,"text":660,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Requirements to Create a Valid Transfer on Death Deed",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":662,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[663],{"mode":29,"text":664,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"While exact requirements vary by state, most transfer on death deeds share a few common elements:",{"id":666,"variant":667,"blockName":8,"items":668,"blockType":681},"6a47d8f386c96519e5d48fd0","arrow",[669,672,675,678],{"id":670,"text":671},"6a47d90186c96519e5d48fd1","Legal capacity. You generally must meet the same mental competency standard required to make a valid will.",{"id":673,"text":674},"6a47d90886c96519e5d48fd2","Clear language of intent. The deed must state that the transfer to your beneficiary only takes effect at your death.",{"id":676,"text":677},"6a47d90d86c96519e5d48fd3","Proper signing and notarization. You must sign the deed and have it notarized before it can be recorded.",{"id":679,"text":680},"6a47d91286c96519e5d48fd4","Recording before death. The deed must be recorded with the county land records office, often called the recorder of deeds or register of deeds, before you die. A signed but unrecorded deed generally won't be valid.","guide-bullet-list",{"id":683,"content":684,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d8eb86c96519e5d48fcf",{"root":685},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":686,"direction":8},[687],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":688,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[689],{"mode":29,"text":690,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Some states, including California and New York, also require the deed to be signed by witnesses in addition to being notarized. Because these requirements differ by state and can change, it's highly recommended to consult with an attorney or use a state-specific form to make sure your deed meets your state's current requirements.",{"id":692,"variant":500,"productName":12,"link":231,"cta":436,"message":693,"blockName":8,"blockType":501},"6a47d92086c96519e5d48fd5","Ready to create your transfer on death deed?",{"id":695,"content":696,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d96586c96519e5d48fd6",{"root":697},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":698,"direction":8},[699,703],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":700,"direction":8},[701],{"mode":29,"text":702,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Pros and Cons of a Transfer on Death Deed",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":704,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":23},[705],{"mode":29,"text":706,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Potential advantages:",{"id":708,"variant":709,"blockName":8,"items":710,"blockType":681},"6a47d96d86c96519e5d48fd7","plus",[711,714,717,720,723],{"id":712,"text":713},"6a47d97086c96519e5d48fd8","Avoids probate for the property it covers",{"id":715,"text":716},"6a47d97386c96519e5d48fd9","Generally lower cost than setting up a living trust",{"id":718,"text":719},"6a47d97786c96519e5d48fda","Fully revocable at any time while you're alive",{"id":721,"text":722},"6a47d97b86c96519e5d48fdb","Lets you keep complete ownership and control until death",{"id":724,"text":725},"6a47d97e86c96519e5d48fdc","Simpler to create than a full trust-based estate plan",{"id":727,"content":728,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47d98586c96519e5d48fdd",{"root":729},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":730,"direction":8},[731],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":732,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":23},[733],{"mode":29,"text":734,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":23,"version":23},"Potential drawbacks:",{"id":736,"variant":737,"blockName":8,"items":738,"blockType":681},"6a47d99086c96519e5d48fde","minus",[739,742,745,748],{"id":740,"text":741},"6a47d99686c96519e5d48fdf","Only covers real estate, not other types of property",{"id":743,"text":744},"6a47d99986c96519e5d48fe0","Doesn't protect the property from your creditors during your lifetime",{"id":746,"text":747},"6a47d99e86c96519e5d48fe1","In most states, multiple beneficiaries inherit equal shares, with limited flexibility to weight distributions",{"id":749,"text":750},"6a47d9a386c96519e5d48fe2","If a named beneficiary dies before you and no alternate is named, the property may still need to go through probate",{"id":752,"heading":319,"background":320,"blockName":8,"items":753,"blockType":372,"visibility":821},"6a47d9c386c96519e5d48fe4",[754,763,773,782,792,802,811],{"id":755,"question":65,"answer":756,"legacyHtml":8},"6a47d9c686c96519e5d48fe5",{"root":757},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":758,"direction":8},[759],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":760,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[761],{"mode":29,"text":762,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A transfer on death deed is a legal document that lets a property owner name a beneficiary to inherit real estate automatically at death, without going through probate. The owner keeps full ownership and control of the property during their lifetime, and the deed can be changed or revoked at any time before death.",{"id":764,"question":765,"answer":766,"legacyHtml":8},"6a47d9d486c96519e5d48fe6","Is a transfer on death deed the same as a beneficiary deed?",{"root":767},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":768,"direction":8},[769],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":770,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[771],{"mode":29,"text":772,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Yes, \"beneficiary deed\" is simply another name used for a transfer on death deed in many states. Both terms refer to the same type of document and function the same way.",{"id":774,"question":324,"answer":775,"legacyHtml":8},"6a47d9df86c96519e5d48fe7",{"root":776},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":777,"direction":8},[778],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":779,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[780],{"mode":29,"text":781,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Yes, a properly signed and recorded transfer on death deed passes the named property directly to the beneficiary at death, bypassing the probate court process for that asset. It does not avoid probate for any other property the deceased person owned.",{"id":783,"question":784,"answer":785,"legacyHtml":8},"6a47d9eb86c96519e5d48fe8","What happens if the beneficiary dies before the property owner?",{"root":786},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":787,"direction":8},[788],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":789,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[790],{"mode":29,"text":791,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"If a named beneficiary dies before the property owner and no alternate beneficiary was named, the transfer on death deed generally becomes invalid for that share of the property. In that case, the property is typically distributed through probate instead.",{"id":793,"question":794,"answer":795,"legacyHtml":8},"6a47d9fa86c96519e5d48fe9","Can a transfer on death deed be revoked?",{"root":796},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":797,"direction":8},[798],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":799,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[800],{"mode":29,"text":801,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Yes, a transfer on death deed can be revoked at any time before the owner's death, as long as the owner is mentally competent to do so. Revocation usually requires recording a new deed or a formal revocation document with the same county land records office.",{"id":803,"question":334,"answer":804,"legacyHtml":8},"6a47da0f86c96519e5d48fea",{"root":805},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":806,"direction":8},[807],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":808,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[809],{"mode":29,"text":810,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Yes, like other estate planning documents, a transfer on death deed can be challenged in court, often on the grounds that the owner lacked capacity or was subject to undue influence when signing it. Properly following state signing and recording requirements helps reduce this risk.",{"id":812,"question":813,"answer":814,"legacyHtml":8},"6a47da1f86c96519e5d48feb","Is a transfer on death deed a good substitute for a will?",{"root":815},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":816,"direction":8},[817],{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":818,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[819],{"mode":29,"text":820,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Not entirely. A transfer on death deed only covers the specific real estate named in it, while a will can direct what happens to your other assets and personal property. Most people use a transfer on death deed alongside a will rather than instead of one.",{"hideOnMobile":8,"hideOnDesktop":8},{"id":823,"content":824,"legacyHtml":8,"blockName":8,"blockType":460},"6a47da4386c96519e5d48fed",{"root":825},{"type":21,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":826,"direction":8},[827,831,835],{"tag":61,"type":62,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":828,"direction":8},[829],{"mode":29,"text":830,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Conclusion",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":832,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[833],{"mode":29,"text":834,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"A transfer on death deed is a straightforward way to pass real estate directly to a beneficiary without the time and cost of probate, while letting you keep full control of the property for as long as you own it. It works best as one piece of a broader estate plan rather than a complete replacement for a will or trust, since it only covers the specific property named in the deed. Before creating one, it's worth confirming your state's specific requirements and considering how it fits alongside your other estate planning documents.",{"type":26,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":23,"children":836,"direction":8,"textStyle":15,"textFormat":22},[837,839,844],{"mode":29,"text":838,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},"Ready to see if a transfer on death deed fits your estate plan? LegalNature's ",{"id":840,"type":449,"fields":841,"format":15,"indent":22,"version":454,"children":842,"direction":8},"6a47da4a6a77e7e2862f5d46",{"url":451,"newTab":452,"linkType":453},[843],{"mode":29,"text":457,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23},{"mode":29,"text":845,"type":31,"style":15,"detail":22,"format":22,"version":23}," makes it easy to create a state-compliant deed online, backed by LegalNature's 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're not happy, then we're not happy — give us a call and let us help.",{"id":847,"variant":500,"productName":12,"link":231,"cta":436,"message":693,"blockName":8,"blockType":501},"6a47da8386c96519e5d48fee",[],[],{"name":8,"slug":8,"productVersionSlug":8},{"title":852,"description":424,"keyword":8,"ogImage":8},"What Is a Transfer on Death Deed? | LegalNature","2026-07-16T09:01:00.369Z","2026-07-03T15:25:36.543Z"]