A Washington transfer on death deed is a written instrument used to designate a real estate beneficiary who will inherit the property upon the current owner’s death. The deed allows an owner to pass on their property without having their estate go through probate and, unlike a will, transfers ownership immediately after the owner’s death. An owner’s property rights remain the same after recording a transfer on death deed, and they may cancel the deed at any point by filing an instrument of revocation. This type of deed will convey the property’s title without warranty, leaving the beneficiary liable for any encumbrances that remain unresolved.
- Statutes: Chapter 64.04 – Conveyances, Chapter 64.80 – Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act
- Formatting: § 65.04.045, § 64.32.120, § 65.04.048
- Signing Requirements (§ 64.03.020): Notary Public
- Where to Record (§ 65.08.070): County Recorder’s Office (Court Directory)
- Recording Fees (King County Recorder’s Office): $203.50 for the first page + $1 for each additional page
- Cover Sheet (§ 65.04.047): Documents presented for filing must include a cover sheet containing the information specified in § 65.04.045 if not already stated on the first page. A specific cover sheet provided by the county’s recorder’s office may be required (as in Pierce County).