Arizona Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed Form – Downloadable Template 

Avoid Probate in Arizona with a Simple Beneficiary Deed

Looking for an Arizona Transfer on Death Deed form? Our downloadable Arizona beneficiary deed template provides a straightforward way to transfer real estate to your beneficiaries without going through probate court.

Download Your Arizona Beneficiary Deed Template Now - $18

What is an Arizona Transfer on Death Deed?

An Arizona Transfer on Death Deed (also called an Arizona beneficiary deed) is a legal document that allows Arizona property owners to name beneficiaries who will automatically inherit their real estate upon death—without the time, expense, and complexity of probate.

Why Choose Our Arizona Beneficiary Deed Template?

✔ Instant Download – Get immediate access to your Arizona Transfer on Death Deed PDF
✔ Multiple Formats – Available as editable MS Word, fillable PDF, and Google Doc
✔ Easy to Use – Includes step-by-step instructions for completing your deed
✔ Legally Compliant – Formatted to meet Arizona Revised Statutes § 33-405 requirements
✔ Affordable – Just $18 for complete access to all formats

What's Included in Your Purchase:

• Arizona Transfer on Death Deed form (Word, PDF, and Google Doc formats)

• Editable Arizona beneficiary deed template you can customize

• Fillable Arizona TOD deed PDF for easy completion

• Step-by-step instructions for proper execution

• Recording guidelines for Arizona counties

• Access to our organized course platform with all templates

Benefits of an Arizona Transfer on Death Deed:

Avoid Probate – Your property transfers directly to your named beneficiaries without court involvement

Retain Full Control – You maintain complete ownership and can sell, mortgage, or revoke the deed at any time during your lifetime

No Gift Tax – Since the transfer doesn't occur until death, there are no gift tax consequences

Simple & Affordable – Much less expensive than setting up a trust or going through probate

Flexibility – Easy to revoke or modify if your circumstances change

Privacy – Unlike a will, beneficiary deeds don't become public record during probate

Cost Savings – Avoid thousands of dollars in probate attorney fees and court costs

No Transfer Tax – Arizona has no state real estate transfer tax

How Does an Arizona Beneficiary Deed Work?

1. Complete the Form – Fill out our Arizona Transfer on Death Deed template with your property information and beneficiary details

2. Sign Before a Notary – The deed must be notarized (notary services not included)

3. Record the Deed – File with your County Recorder's office before your death

4. Maintain Control – You retain all ownership rights during your lifetime

5. Automatic Transfer – Upon your death, property passes directly to your named beneficiaries

Arizona Beneficiary Deed Requirements:

• Must be recorded with the County Recorder where the property is located

• Must be recorded before the owner's death (cannot be recorded after death)

• Must be notarized

• Must contain the legal description of the property

• Must include the Assessor's Parcel Number (APN)

• Must clearly identify the beneficiary(ies) with full names and addresses

• Must include the proper statutory language per Arizona A.R.S. § 33-405

• Must state it is a "beneficiary deed" or use similar language

• Requires Affidavit of Property Value for recording

Who Should Use an Arizona Transfer on Death Deed?

Our Arizona beneficiary deed form is ideal for:

• Homeowners who want to avoid probate

• Property owners with straightforward estate plans

• Individuals looking for an affordable alternative to trusts

• Those who want to maintain control of their property during their lifetime

• Families seeking to simplify the inheritance process

• Second homeowners and vacation property owners

• Retirees planning their estate distribution

Download Your Arizona Beneficiary Deed Template Today

Get instant access to your Arizona Transfer on Death Deed form download for just $18. Available in editable Word format, fillable PDF, and Google Docs for maximum convenience.

Get Instant Access - $18

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is an Arizona Transfer on Death Deed valid?
A: Yes, Arizona officially recognizes beneficiary deeds (Transfer on Death Deeds) under A.R.S. § 33-405, effective since 2001. Arizona was actually one of the first states to adopt this probate-avoidance tool.

Q: Can I change or revoke my Arizona beneficiary deed?
A: Absolutely. You can revoke or modify your beneficiary deed at any time during your lifetime by recording a revocation or new deed with the County Recorder.

Q: Does an Arizona beneficiary deed affect Medicaid eligibility?
A: Generally, beneficiary deeds do not affect Medicaid eligibility since you retain ownership during your lifetime. However, Arizona has Medicaid estate recovery rules, so consult with an elder law attorney for your specific situation.

Q: Do I need an attorney to complete an Arizona Transfer on Death Deed?
A: While not required, you may wish to consult an attorney for complex situations. Our downloadable Arizona beneficiary deed template includes instructions for straightforward transfers.

Q: Can I name multiple beneficiaries on an Arizona beneficiary deed?
A: Yes, you can name multiple beneficiaries and specify whether they receive equal shares or different percentages.

Q: What happens if my beneficiary dies before me?
A: If a beneficiary dies before you, their share typically goes to the surviving beneficiaries unless you've named alternate beneficiaries. It's best to update your deed if circumstances change.

Q: How much does it cost to record an Arizona beneficiary deed?
A: Recording fees vary by county, typically ranging from $30-$50 for the first page plus $3-$5 for each additional page. Arizona has no state transfer tax.

Q: Do beneficiaries need to do anything after my death?
A: Beneficiaries must record an affidavit and provide a certified copy of the death certificate to complete the transfer. Our instructions include guidance on this process.

Q: Will an Arizona beneficiary deed work if I have a mortgage?
A: Yes, the beneficiary deed doesn't affect your mortgage. However, beneficiaries will inherit the property subject to any existing liens or mortgages.

Q: Can I use a beneficiary deed if I'm married?
A: Yes, but if the property is community property, both spouses typically need to sign the deed. Arizona is a community property state.

Multiple Format Options

Editable Word Document – Fully customizable Arizona beneficiary deed template in MS Word format

Fillable PDF – Complete your Arizona Transfer on Death Deed PDF digitally

Google Docs – Cloud-based access to edit your Arizona TOD deed form from anywhere

Arizona Beneficiary Deed vs. Living Trust

Beneficiary Deed:

• Simple, one-time recording

• Costs $18 + recording fee (no transfer tax)

• Easy to revoke or modify

• Only covers one property per deed

• Remains revocable until death

• Public record once recorded

Living Trust:

• More complex setup

• Attorney fees typically $1,500-$3,000+

• Can cover multiple assets

• Ongoing management required

• Provides more comprehensive planning

• Private document

For single-property owners, an Arizona beneficiary deed is often the most cost-effective probate-avoidance solution.

💡 Need Professional Help?

If you'd prefer expert assistance with your property transfer, you can upgrade to our complete deed preparation tutorial course ($37) or DFY service at any time—and we'll credit back the full $18 cost of this template toward your service fee.

Serving All Arizona Counties

Our Arizona Transfer on Death Deed form is valid in all 15 Arizona counties, including:

• Maricopa County (Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Glendale, Chandler)

• Pima County (Tucson)

• Pinal County (Florence, Casa Grande, Apache Junction)

• Yavapai County (Prescott, Prescott Valley)

• Yuma County (Yuma)

• Mohave County (Kingman, Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City)

• Coconino County (Flagstaff, Sedona)

• Cochise County (Sierra Vista, Bisbee)

• Navajo County (Show Low, Holbrook)

• Apache County (St. Johns)

• Gila County (Globe, Payson)

• Santa Cruz County (Nogales)

• Graham County (Safford)

• Greenlee County (Clifton)

• La Paz County (Parker)

Important Arizona-Specific Considerations

Community Property State – Arizona is a community property state. If married, both spouses typically need to sign the deed if the property is community property.

Medicaid Recovery – Arizona has a Medicaid estate recovery program (ALTCS). Consult with an elder law attorney if you've received long-term care assistance.

Property Tax – Generally no property tax reassessment upon inheritance in Arizona, but beneficiaries should verify with their county assessor.

No Transfer Tax – Arizona is one of the few states with no real estate transfer tax, making beneficiary deeds very affordable.

Recording Timing – The beneficiary deed must be recorded BEFORE death to be valid. It cannot be recorded after the owner passes away.

Affidavit of Property Value – Required when recording the beneficiary deed for county assessment purposes.

Step-by-Step Process Included

Our comprehensive instructions guide you through:

1. Determining if a beneficiary deed is right for your situation

2. Gathering required property information and Assessor's Parcel Number (APN)

3. Completing the Arizona beneficiary deed form

4. Choosing and naming beneficiaries (primary and alternate)

5. Properly executing the document

6. Understanding notarization requirements

7. Completing the Affidavit of Property Value

8. Filing with your County Recorder

9. What beneficiaries need to do after your death

10. How to revoke or modify the deed if needed

Tax Considerations for Arizona Beneficiary Deeds

No State Transfer Tax – Arizona has no real estate transfer tax, making property transfers very affordable

Federal Estate Tax – Federal exemption is over $13 million per person (2024), indexed for inflation

Property Tax – Generally no property tax reassessment upon inheritance; beneficiaries continue existing tax basis

Capital Gains – Beneficiaries receive a "step-up" in basis to fair market value at date of death, minimizing capital gains tax

Gift Tax – No gift tax consequences since transfer occurs at death, not during lifetime

Arizona Estate Tax – Arizona has no state estate tax

Consult a tax professional or estate planning attorney for advice specific to your situation

What Makes Our Arizona Beneficiary Deed Template Different?

✓ Arizona-Specific – Complies with all A.R.S. § 33-405 requirements
✓ Proper Formatting – Meets Arizona's strict margin and spacing requirements
✓ Up-to-Date – Reflects current Arizona law
✓ Professionally Drafted – Created by legal document preparation experts
✓ Easy to Customize – Clear blanks for your specific information
✓ Detailed Instructions – Step-by-step guidance included
✓ Multiple Formats – Work in the format that suits you best
✓ Instant Access – Download immediately after purchase

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Not recording before death – The deed must be recorded while you're alive
❌ Incomplete legal description – Must match your current deed exactly
❌ Missing Assessor's Parcel Number (APN) – Required in Arizona
❌ Improper margins or formatting – Arizona has strict formatting requirements
❌ Missing notarization – Required for recording
❌ Not considering community property – Spouses may both need to sign
❌ Forgetting about mortgages – Beneficiaries inherit subject to loans
❌ Not updating after life changes – Review and update as circumstances change
❌ Not completing Affidavit of Property Value – Required for recording

Our Arizona Transfer on Death Deed template includes detailed instructions to help you avoid these common pitfalls.

Understanding Arizona Beneficiary Deed Ownership Options

When naming beneficiaries on your Arizona beneficiary deed, you can specify:

Equal Shares – All beneficiaries receive equal portions

Unequal Shares – Specify different percentages for each beneficiary

With Survivorship – If one beneficiary dies before you, their share goes to surviving beneficiaries

Per Stirpes – If a beneficiary dies before you, their share goes to their descendants

Alternate Beneficiaries – Name backup beneficiaries in case primary beneficiaries predecease you

Our template allows you to customize these options based on your estate planning goals.

Arizona Community Property and Beneficiary Deeds

Community Property Considerations:

If you're married in Arizona, you need to understand community property rules:

• Property acquired during marriage is typically community property

• Both spouses own an equal 50% interest

• Both spouses must typically sign to transfer community property

• One spouse alone can transfer their separate property

• Community property with right of survivorship is another option

Community Property with Right of Survivorship:

This is different from a beneficiary deed. With community property with right of survivorship:

• Property automatically passes to surviving spouse

• No beneficiary deed needed

• Established when property is acquired or through a separate agreement

Our instructions help you navigate these options.

Revoking an Arizona Beneficiary Deed

You can revoke your Arizona beneficiary deed at any time by:

1. Recording a Revocation – File a formal revocation document with the County Recorder

2. Recording a New Beneficiary Deed – Automatically revokes prior beneficiary deed for that property

3. Selling or Transferring the Property – Automatically revokes the beneficiary deed

All revocations must be recorded before your death to be effective. Our package includes guidance on revocation procedures.

What Happens After the Owner's Death?

When the owner passes away, beneficiaries must:

1. Obtain Certified Death Certificate – Get multiple copies from vital records

2. Prepare Beneficiary's Affidavit – Document that states the owner has died

3. Record Documents – File affidavit and death certificate with County Recorder

4. Complete Transfer – Property title transfers to beneficiaries

5. Pay Any Liens – Address existing mortgages or property taxes

6. Update Property Tax Records – Notify county assessor of ownership change

Our instructions include detailed post-death procedures for beneficiaries.

Additional Arizona Real Estate Forms Available

Need other Arizona property forms? We also offer:

• Arizona Quitclaim Deeds – Quick transfers between trusted parties

• Arizona Warranty Deeds – For sales with title guarantees

• Arizona Special Warranty Deeds – Limited warranty protection

• Arizona Deed of Trust Forms – Secure property financing

Arizona Beneficiary Deed Success Stories

Thousands of Arizona property owners have used beneficiary deeds to:

• Save their families from months of probate court proceedings

• Avoid $3,000-$10,000+ in probate attorney fees

• Keep their estate planning private

• Ensure smooth property transfers to children

• Maintain flexibility to change beneficiaries as needed

• Protect their homes while qualifying for Medicaid/ALTCS

Ready to Avoid Probate in Arizona?

Download your Arizona Transfer on Death Deed form today and take control of your estate planning. For just $18, you'll have everything you need to transfer your Arizona property to your loved ones without the hassle and expense of probate—and without paying any state transfer tax!

Get Instant Access - $18

Why Arizona Beneficiary Deeds Are Perfect for Estate Planning

Arizona's beneficiary deed statute is one of the most user-friendly in the nation:

✓ No witnesses required (just notarization) ✓ No transfer tax to pay ✓ Easy revocation process ✓ Well-established case law since 2001 ✓ Widely accepted by title companies ✓ Simple for beneficiaries to complete transfer ✓ Works with both sole ownership and community property

Take advantage of Arizona's excellent probate-avoidance tools and protect your family's inheritance today.

Download Your Arizona Beneficiary Deed Template Now - $18

Legal Disclaimer

These templates are provided by Noble Notary & Legal Document Preparers for general informational use only. We are not attorneys, and no attorney-client relationship is created by your purchase. The forms are not a substitute for legal advice and may not be appropriate for every situation. You are solely responsible for ensuring the forms are lawful and appropriate for your specific circumstances.

Forms are provided "as-is," without warranties of any kind. By purchasing, you agree that Noble Notary & Legal Document Preparers is not liable for any outcomes resulting from your use of these materials.

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