Do I Need a Transfer on Death Deed in Iowa?
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
No. Iowa does not currently allow transfer on death deeds. Iowa has not adopted the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act or any TOD deed statute for real property. Iowa Code Chapter 633D (§§633D.1–633D.12) authorizes TOD registration for securities only; Chapter 633F is the Iowa Uniform Custodial Trust Act and does not create a TOD deed. Chapter 633G does not exist in the Iowa Code.
Because Iowa does not allow TOD deeds, alternatives for avoiding probate on real property include: Revocable living trust, Joint tenancy with right of survivorship, Life estate deed. Compare your options with the trust vs. will comparison.
Without a TOD deed option, real property in Iowa typically passes through probate unless held in a trust or with joint tenancy. Use the Iowa probate calculator to estimate what that would cost.
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New Home
How to put your house in a revocable trust: the deed you record, what it does to your mortgage and property taxes, and when a TOD deed is simpler.
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Iowa Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Iowa probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.