Do I Need a Transfer on Death Deed?

34 states and the District of Columbia allow some form of transfer on death deed. States that do not allow them include Florida, Michigan, and several others. Use this tool to check whether your state allows TOD deeds and see alternatives like revocable trusts if your state does not.

A TOD deed covers a single property in one state. A revocable trust can hold multiple properties across states, plus bank accounts, investments, and other assets. A TOD deed is simpler and less expensive for a single property, but a trust is more flexible for complex situations. When a TOD deed isn't enough, SimplyTrust sets up a revocable trust online.

In most states that allow TOD deeds, single-family homes qualify. Some states restrict TOD deeds to certain property types or fee simple interests. This tool checks your state's specific rules based on the property type you select.

Yes — for the property covered by the deed. A TOD deed names a beneficiary who receives the real property automatically at the owner's death, with no probate administration for that property. Title passes by operation of the recorded deed itself (Cal. Prob. Code § 5652 states the deed "transfers all of the transferor's interest in the property on the transferor's death"). Only the property named in the deed skips probate; other assets still follow their own transfer rules.