Loading form...
When you're ready, we're here.
Illinois Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Illinois probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
© 2026 SimplyTrust Software Inc.
In-depth guides covering Illinois probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
Free Illinois transfer on death instrument form. Transfer property at death without probate. notary acknowledgment. Record before death. PDF.
Step 1 of 3
Enter your information as the property owner (transferor). If the property is jointly owned, you’ll add the second owner below.
FREE & PRIVATE: This form is free—no account or credit card required. Your form entries and generated document never leave your browser—SimplyTrust does not transmit or store them. You are responsible for saving your completed document.
SELF-HELP SERVICE: SimplyTrust provides a self-help document preparation service. We are not a law firm and cannot provide legal advice, select forms for you, or tell you how to complete forms. Our role is limited to providing a platform where you input your own information into document templates.
NOT LEGAL ADVICE:This document was created entirely based on your selections. SimplyTrust does not review, analyze, or verify your entries, nor do we verify your identity, capacity, or authority to act. You are solely responsible for determining whether this document meets your needs and for completing all required execution formalities (signatures, witnesses, notarization, or recording) in accordance with your state's laws. For any legal questions, consult a licensed attorney in your state.
A transfer on death instrument in Illinois transfers real property directly to a named beneficiary upon the owner's death, without probate.755 ILCS 27/1 to 27/95Verified May 31, 2026 The deed is revocable during your lifetime. Use the TOD deed checker to see if this is the right fit.
Illinois requires the owner's signature, 2 witnesses, and notary acknowledgment.755 ILCS 27/1 to 27/95Verified May 31, 2026 All signatures must be completed before recording. See all Illinois signing requirements.
Yes. A Illinois transfer on death instrument must be recorded with the County Recorder before death to be effective.755 ILCS 27/1 to 27/95Verified May 31, 2026 An unrecorded deed has no legal effect. Must be recorded in the office of the recorder of the county where the property is located before the owner's death. Failure to record before death renders the instrument void. 755 ILCS 27/40(a)(3), (b).
Yes. Illinois allows multiple beneficiaries on a transfer on death instrument. Unless specified otherwise, they take title as tenants in common.
Yes. You can revoke at any time by recording a revocation instrument, executing a new transfer on death instrument for the same property, or transferring the property during your lifetime.
No. A transfer on death instrument only transfers the specific real property named in it. Bank accounts, investments, and other property pass through whatever else you have in place — a will (probate) or a trust. A revocable living trust covers everything in one document, including the property this deed transfers. Set up a trust if you want a single instrument for the whole estate.
Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.
Your home is probably your biggest asset. Protect it like one. Property titling, trust ownership, and how to keep your home out of probate.
Learn more
Retirement changes your financial picture. Healthcare directives, beneficiary reviews, long-term care planning, and protecting what you've built.
Learn more