Do I Need a Vehicle Transfer on Death Designation in Iowa?

Because Iowa does not offer a vehicle TOD designation, the vehicle transfers through: Affidavit of Death Intestate (Iowa DOT Form 411088) under Iowa Code 321.47(2): persons entitled under the laws of descent and distribution may obtain a new title by affidavit when there has been no administration of the estate., Affidavit of Death Testate (Iowa DOT Form 411083) under Iowa Code 321.47(2): where the decedent died testate and the will is not probated or is admitted to probate without administration, the persons entitled may obtain a new title by affidavit., Surviving-spouse transfer under Iowa Code 321.47(2): when the person entitled to possession and ownership is the surviving spouse, the certificate-of-title fee and surcharge are waived., Transfer through a probated estate under Iowa Code 321.47(1): the legal representative assigns the title and presents letters of appointment to a county treasurer (Application for Certificate of Iowa Title, Form 411007)., Small-estate affidavit under Iowa Code 633.356: where the decedent's probate assets consist only of personal property with no interest in real estate, the gross value of that personal property is $100,000 or less, and 40 days have elapsed since death, a successor may receive tangible personal property (including a vehicle) by affidavit without procuring letters of appointment. The Iowa DOT confirms county treasurers still accept small estate affidavits as proof a person is entitled to ownership of a vehicle.. To keep other assets out of probate, SimplyTrust sets up a revocable trust online.

Without a vehicle TOD option, a Iowa vehicle typically passes through the estate unless it is jointly titled or held in a trust, or qualifies for a small-estate transfer. Compare your options with the trust vs. will comparison.