Loading form...
© 2026 SimplyTrust Software Inc.
Kentucky does not authorize transfer on death deeds. 3 alternatives are available to transfer real property at death without probate.
Kentucky has not adopted the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act or any TOD deed statute. KRS Chapter 394 covers wills and probate, not TOD deeds.
Kentucky SB 34 (2026 RS) would have established the Kentucky Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act. It passed the Senate 36-2 on 3/12/2026 with Floor Amendment 2 and was referred to the House Local Government Committee on 3/24/2026, but received no further action before the 2026 Regular Session adjourned Sine Die on 4/15/2026 — the bill died in committee. Prior URPTODA attempts (2018 HB 94, 2023 HB 72, 2024 HB 50) also failed to enact. As of 2026-05-07, no TOD deed statute exists in Kentucky.
These mechanisms transfer real property at death without probate in Kentucky:
Consult a licensed attorney for help choosing the right mechanism for your situation.
Kentucky legislators have introduced bills to authorize transfer on death deeds. The law has not been enacted as of the verification date (2026-05-07).
Kentucky has not adopted the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act or any TOD deed statute. KRS Chapter 394 covers wills and probate, not TOD deeds.
Kentucky recognizes 3 alternatives for transferring real property outside of probate: Revocable living trust; Joint tenancy with right of survivorship; Life estate deed with remainder interest.
No. Real property transfers are governed by the state where the property is located. A TOD deed signed under another state's law has no effect on real property in Kentucky.
Yes. Legislation authorizing transfer on death deeds has been proposed in Kentucky, but is not currently enacted. Kentucky SB 34 (2026 RS) would have established the Kentucky Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act. It passed the Senate 36-2 on 3/12/2026 with Floor Amendment 2 and was referred to the House Local Government Committee on 3/24/2026, but received no further action before the 2026 Regular Session adjourned Sine Die on 4/15/2026 — the bill died in committee. Prior URPTODA attempts (2018 HB 94, 2023 HB 72, 2024 HB 50) also failed to enact. As of 2026-05-07, no TOD deed statute exists in Kentucky.