Similar forms
The New York Transfer-on-Death Deed (TOD) form shares similarities with a Last Will and Testament. Both documents serve the purpose of directing how a person’s assets will be distributed after their death. A will outlines the distribution of all assets, while a TOD specifically allows for the transfer of real estate without the need for probate. This can simplify the process for heirs, as the property can pass directly to the designated beneficiary upon the owner’s death. However, unlike a will, a TOD deed takes effect immediately upon execution, allowing the property owner to retain full control during their lifetime.
Another document that resembles the Transfer-on-Death Deed is a Living Trust. Like the TOD, a living trust allows for the transfer of assets outside of probate. In a living trust, the person creating the trust (the grantor) transfers ownership of their property into the trust, which is then managed by a trustee. Upon the grantor’s death, the assets in the trust can be distributed according to the terms set forth in the trust document. This method can provide more privacy and flexibility than a will or a TOD deed, as it can include provisions for the management of assets during the grantor’s lifetime and after their death.
A Beneficiary Designation form is another document that has a similar function. Commonly used for financial accounts and insurance policies, this form allows individuals to designate who will receive their assets upon death. Like the TOD deed, a beneficiary designation bypasses probate, enabling a direct transfer to the named beneficiary. However, while the TOD deed specifically applies to real estate, beneficiary designations can be applied to various types of assets, including bank accounts, retirement accounts, and life insurance policies. This makes them versatile tools for estate planning.
Lastly, a Joint Tenancy Agreement bears resemblance to the Transfer-on-Death Deed. In a joint tenancy arrangement, two or more individuals hold title to a property together, with rights of survivorship. This means that if one owner passes away, the surviving owner(s) automatically inherit the deceased owner’s share without going through probate. While both the joint tenancy and the TOD deed facilitate the transfer of property outside of probate, they differ in that joint tenancy requires co-ownership during the owner’s lifetime, whereas a TOD deed allows the original owner to retain full control until their death.