Virginia Transfer‑on‑Death (TOD) Deeds
A Transfer‑on‑Death deed lets Virginia property owners pass real estate directly to a beneficiary without probate—but only takes effect upon your death. At Doummar Law, we’ll guide you through creating, revoking, and understanding TOD deeds as part of your estate plan.
📜 What Is a Transfer‑on‑Death Deed?
Effective July 1, 2013, under Virginia Code § 64.2‑624, a TOD deed is a recorded, written document stating that your property transfers automatically upon death—no beneficiary payment or acceptance required :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. You retain all control during your lifetime.
🏠 How a TOD Deed Works
- Recorded before your death in the county’s land records
- Makes no current change—you can still sell, mortgage, or gift the property
- Takes effect only if the named beneficiary survives you :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Automatically revokes upon divorce unless the deed specifies otherwise
🔁 Revoking or Changing a TOD Deed
You can revoke or modify your TOD deed anytime by recording:
- A new TOD deed that expressly revokes the prior one
- An inter vivos deed or separate revocation document before death :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
✅ Why Choose a TOD Deed?
- Avoids probate and related delays
- Maintains full control and transfer flexibility while alive
- Protects against probate-related fees with minimal documentation
- Preserves step-up in basis—beneficiaries pay lower taxes on appreciated value :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
How Doummar Law Can Help
Our estate planning attorneys assist by:
- Drafting and properly recording TOD deeds
- Advising on beneficiary designations and survivorship safeguards
- Handling revocation or updates as life circumstances change
- Coordinating TOD deeds with wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and broader estate plans
We also help with wills, trusts, and estate administration services—offering comprehensive legacy solutions.
📞 Call (757) 422‑0061 or schedule a consultation to set up or review your TOD deed today.
📢 Secure Your Property Transfer Plan
Take action now to ensure your property passes smoothly to loved ones—no probate hassles. Our team makes drafting and revoking TOD deeds simple and reliable.
