A Missouri beneficiary deed, also known as a “transfer on death deed,” is a document that transfers real estate from its owner to a grantee beneficiary when the owner dies. By using this instrument, the property owner ensures that the transfer will bypass probate and the beneficiary will receive the property without any complications. While the owner remains living, they will retain ownership and can sell the property or revoke the deed at any time. For the deed to be valid, it must be executed and filed with the recorder of deeds in the city or county in which the property is situated before the owner’s death.
- Statutes: § 461.025
- Formatting: § 59.310
- Signing Requirements (§ 442.130): Notary Public
- Where to Record: Recorder of Deeds
- Recording Fees: Generally, $24 for one (1) page and $3 for each additional page. Verify by consulting the recorder of deeds website for the county in which the property is located.