Do I Need a Transfer on Death Deed in Arizona?
Answer a few questions about the property to see whether a transfer on death deed applies for avoiding probate on real estate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Arizona allows beneficiary deeds.A.R.S. 33-405Verified Aug 24, 2026 The deed transfers real property to a named beneficiary at death without probate. See how this compares to a trust with the probate calculator.
A beneficiary deed in Arizona requires notary acknowledgment. The signed deed must be recorded at the county recorder before death to be effective. Must be recorded in the county where the property is located before the owner's death. A.R.S. 33-405(E). No specific day deadline applies. County recorder flat recording fee is $30 per instrument. A.R.S. 11-475.A.R.S. 33-405Verified Aug 24, 2026
Yes. A beneficiary deedis revocable at any time during the owner's lifetime. Revocation methods in Arizona include: Recording a new beneficiary deed (the last recorded deed before death controls — A.R.S. 33-405(G)), Recording a revocation document, executed and recorded before death (statutory form in A.R.S. 33-405(L)).A.R.S. 33-405Verified Aug 24, 2026
Arizona allows beneficiary deeds for all types of real property, including homes, land, condominiums, and commercial properties.A.R.S. 33-405Verified Aug 24, 2026
Yes. Arizona allows multiple beneficiaries on a beneficiary deed. If multiple beneficiaries are named, they take title as tenants in common unless the deed specifies otherwise.A.R.S. 33-405Verified Aug 24, 2026
A beneficiary deed transfers the property directly to the beneficiary at death, bypassing probate for that asset. Other assets not covered by a TOD deed, trust, or beneficiary designation still go through probate. Use the Arizona probate calculator to estimate the cost of probating remaining assets.
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