Does Vermont Allow Transfer on Death Deeds?

Vermont does not authorize transfer on death deeds. 3 alternatives are available to transfer real property at death without probate.

Why TOD deeds aren't available in Vermont

Vermont has not adopted the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act or any TOD deed statute. (Verified against legislature.vermont.gov Title 27 and Title 14 chapter indexes and the full 2025-2026 session bill list 2026-07-13; no TOD deed / beneficiary deed chapter exists, no TOD deed bill introduced.)

Vermont enacted the Enhanced Life Estate Deed Act (ELED Act) at 27 V.S.A. 651-660 effective Jul 13, 2020, which provides a nonprobate transfer mechanism for real property distinct from TOD deeds. Optional statutory form at 27 V.S.A. 660. 14 V.S.A. 4031(a)(12) (Vermont Uniform Power of Attorney Act, added 2023 Act No. 60, eff. Jul 1, 2023) requires an express grant of authority in a power of attorney before an agent may convey, or revoke or revise a grantee designation, by enhanced life estate deed under 27 V.S.A. ch. 6 or common law.

Alternatives for Vermont

These mechanisms transfer real property at death without probate in Vermont:

  • •
    Enhanced life estate deed (27 V.S.A. ch. 6, sections 651-660, enacted 2019 Act No. 145 (Adj. Sess.) / H.837, eff. Jul 13, 2020)
  • •
    Revocable living trust
  • •
    Joint tenancy with right of survivorship

Consult a licensed attorney for help choosing the right mechanism for your situation.

Frequently asked questions

Vermont has not adopted the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act or any TOD deed statute. (Verified against legislature.vermont.gov Title 27 and Title 14 chapter indexes and the full 2025-2026 session bill list 2026-07-13; no TOD deed / beneficiary deed chapter exists, no TOD deed bill introduced.)

Vermont recognizes 3 alternatives for transferring real property outside of probate: Enhanced life estate deed (27 V.S.A. ch. 6, sections 651-660, enacted 2019 Act No. 145 (Adj. Sess.) / H.837, eff. Jul 13, 2020); Revocable living trust; Joint tenancy with right of survivorship.

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 Vermont.