Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Form – Downloadable Template 

Avoid Probate and Transfer Your Indiana Property Automatically Upon Death

Looking for an Indiana transfer on death deed form? Our downloadable Indiana TOD deed template provides a simple, effective way to transfer your property to beneficiaries upon your death while avoiding the lengthy and expensive probate process—perfect for estate planning and ensuring your property passes smoothly to your loved ones.

Download Your Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Template Now - $18

What is an Indiana Transfer on Death Deed?

An Indiana transfer on death deed (also called an Indiana TOD deed) is a special legal document that allows you to designate who will receive your real estate when you die, without going through probate. Unlike traditional deeds that transfer property immediately, an Indiana TOD deed only takes effect upon your death, allowing you to maintain complete ownership and control during your lifetime.

Why Choose Our Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Template?

✔ Instant Download – Get immediate access to your Indiana TOD 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 TOD deed
✔ Legally Compliant – Formatted to meet Indiana Code § 32-17-14 requirements
✔ Affordable – Just $18 for complete access to all formats

What's Included in Your Purchase:

• Indiana transfer on death deed form (Word, PDF, and Google Doc formats)

• Editable Indiana TOD deed template you can customize

• Fillable Indiana TOD deed PDF for easy completion

• Step-by-step instructions for proper execution

• Recording guidelines for Indiana counties

• Revocation instructions (how to change or cancel)

• Access to our organized course platform with all templates

Common Uses for Indiana Transfer on Death Deeds:

Estate Planning – Pass property to heirs without probate

Avoiding Probate – Save time and money by bypassing the probate process

Maintaining Control – Keep full ownership and control during your lifetime

Simple Succession – Straightforward way to transfer property at death

Revocable Planning – Can be changed or cancelled anytime during your life

Multiple Beneficiaries – Name several people to receive your property

Backup Beneficiaries – Designate alternate beneficiaries if primary dies first

Preserving Medicaid Eligibility – Unlike gifts, TOD deeds don't trigger Medicaid penalties

Benefits of Using Our Indiana TOD Deed Form:

Avoid Probate – Property transfers automatically without court involvement

Maintain Control – You keep full ownership rights during your lifetime

Easy to Revoke – Can be changed or cancelled anytime before death

Cost-Effective – Much cheaper than probate or complex trusts

Simple Process – Easier than creating a living trust

Flexible Formats – Choose from Word, PDF, or Google Docs

Instant Access – Download and use immediately—no waiting

Professional Quality – Legally compliant with Indiana recording requirements

How Does an Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Work?

1. Complete the Form – Fill out our Indiana TOD deed template with your information and beneficiary details

2. Sign Before a Notary – You must sign in the presence of a notary public (during your lifetime)

3. Record the Deed – File with the County Recorder where your property is located (must be done before death)

4. Property Transfers at Death – Upon your death, property automatically transfers to your named beneficiaries

5. No Probate Required – Beneficiaries receive the property without going through probate court

Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Requirements:

• Must be signed by the property owner (transferor) during their lifetime

• Must be signed in front of a notary public

• Must be notarized with proper acknowledgment

• Must be recorded with the County Recorder before the owner's death

• Must include complete legal property description

• Must include the property's parcel identification number

• Must name the beneficiary or beneficiaries (grantee beneficiaries)

• Can name alternate beneficiaries in case primary beneficiary dies first

• Must comply with Indiana's formatting and margin requirements

• Can be revoked or changed anytime before death

Indiana Transfer on Death Deed vs. Other Planning Options

Transfer on Death Deed (This Form):

• No probate required

• Maintain complete control during life

• Easy to revoke or change

• Simple and affordable

• Property transfers automatically at death

• No gift tax implications

Traditional Will:

• Requires probate

• Court supervision needed

• Time-consuming process

• Legal fees and court costs

• Property doesn't transfer until probate complete

• Beneficiaries wait months or years

Living Trust:

• Avoids probate

• More complex to create

• Higher upfront cost

• Ongoing management needed

• More comprehensive planning

• Good for multiple properties

Life Estate Deed:

• Avoids probate

• Gives up some control

• Cannot be easily revoked

• May affect Medicaid eligibility

• Beneficiary has immediate interest

• Less flexible

Quitclaim/Gift Deed:

• Transfers property immediately

• Lose all ownership rights

• Cannot be undone

• May trigger gift taxes

• Affects Medicaid eligibility

• Loss of control

Who Should Use an Indiana Transfer on Death Deed?

Our Indiana TOD deed template is ideal for:

• Homeowners wanting to avoid probate

• Parents planning to leave property to children

• Individuals with simple estates

• Property owners wanting to maintain control during life

• People who want revocable estate planning

• Those seeking affordable probate alternatives

• Individuals preserving Medicaid eligibility

• Property owners with clear beneficiary wishes

Download Your Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Template Today

Get instant access to your Indiana TOD 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: What is a transfer on death deed in Indiana?
A: An Indiana transfer on death deed is a legal document that transfers your property to named beneficiaries automatically when you die, without going through probate.

Q: Is a transfer on death deed legal in Indiana?
A: Yes, Indiana authorized TOD deeds in 2012 under Indiana Code § 32-17-14. They are a fully legal and recognized estate planning tool in Indiana.

Q: Do I need an attorney to create an Indiana TOD deed?
A: No, you don't legally need an attorney. Our downloadable Indiana transfer on death deed template includes complete instructions for straightforward transfers.

Q: How much does it cost to file an Indiana TOD deed?
A: Recording fees vary by county, typically ranging from $15-$30. There are no transfer taxes when recording a TOD deed during your lifetime.

Q: Does an Indiana TOD deed need to be notarized?
A: Yes, you must sign the TOD deed in front of a notary public, and it must be properly notarized before recording.

Q: Can I change my mind after recording a TOD deed?
A: Yes! One of the biggest advantages is that you can revoke or change your TOD deed anytime during your life by recording a revocation or new TOD deed.

Q: Do I lose control of my property with a TOD deed?
A: No! You maintain complete ownership and control during your lifetime. You can sell, mortgage, or do anything with the property. The transfer only happens at death.

Q: Will a TOD deed affect my Medicaid eligibility?
A: Generally no. Unlike gifts or life estate deeds, TOD deeds typically don't affect Medicaid eligibility because you retain full ownership until death. Consult with a Medicaid planning attorney for your specific situation.

Q: What happens if my beneficiary dies before me?
A: If your beneficiary dies before you and you named alternate beneficiaries, the property goes to the alternates. If no alternates were named, the property will go through probate. You should update your TOD deed if circumstances change.

Q: Can I name multiple beneficiaries on an Indiana TOD deed?
A: Yes, you can name multiple beneficiaries who will receive the property as tenants in common (or joint tenants if specified) upon your death.

Multiple Format Options

Editable Word Document – Fully customizable Indiana transfer on death deed template in MS Word format

Fillable PDF – Complete your Indiana TOD deed PDF digitally with ease

Google Docs – Cloud-based access to edit your Indiana transfer on death deed form from anywhere

Indiana-Specific Considerations

No Transfer Tax When Recording:

• No transfer tax applies when you record the TOD deed during your lifetime

• No recording tax or documentary stamps required

• Only pay the standard recording fee ($15-$30 typically)

Transfer Tax at Death:

• No Indiana state transfer tax when property transfers at death

• Property transfers to beneficiaries tax-free

• Beneficiaries may owe federal estate tax if estate exceeds exemption

• Beneficiaries should consult tax advisor

Property Tax Implications:

• You remain responsible for property taxes during your lifetime

• Property tax assessment typically doesn't change when TOD deed is recorded

• Beneficiaries become responsible for property taxes upon transfer

• Transfer may trigger reassessment

Medicaid Considerations:

• TOD deeds generally don't affect Medicaid eligibility

• Property still owned by you until death

• Not considered a gift or transfer

• Medicaid estate recovery may apply after death

• Consult Medicaid planning attorney

Homestead Exemption:

• You can maintain homestead exemption during your lifetime

• TOD deed doesn't affect your homestead status

• Beneficiaries must apply for their own homestead after transfer

Consult professionals for advice specific to your situation

💡 Need Professional Help?

If you'd prefer expert assistance with your transfer on death deed, you can upgrade to our complete deed preparation service at any time—and we'll credit back the full $18 cost of this template toward your service fee.

Serving All Indiana Counties

Our Indiana transfer on death deed form is valid in all 92 Indiana counties, including:

Central Indiana:

• Marion County (Indianapolis)

• Hamilton County (Noblesville)

• Hendricks County (Danville)

• Hancock County (Greenfield)

• Johnson County (Franklin)

• Boone County (Lebanon)

• Morgan County (Martinsville)

• Shelby County (Shelbyville)

Northern Indiana:

• Lake County (Crown Point)

• St. Joseph County (South Bend)

• Allen County (Fort Wayne)

• Elkhart County (Goshen)

• Porter County (Valparaiso)

• LaPorte County (La Porte)

• Kosciusko County (Warsaw)

Southern Indiana:

• Clark County (Jeffersonville)

• Floyd County (New Albany)

• Harrison County (Corydon)

• Monroe County (Bloomington)

• Lawrence County (Bedford)

• Jackson County (Brownstown)

Eastern Indiana:

• Delaware County (Muncie)

• Madison County (Anderson)

• Grant County (Marion)

• Henry County (New Castle)

• Wayne County (Richmond)

Western Indiana:

• Vigo County (Terre Haute)

• Tippecanoe County (Lafayette)

• Clinton County (Frankfort)

• Montgomery County (Crawfordsville)

And all other Indiana counties

Step-by-Step Process Included

Our comprehensive instructions guide you through:

1. Understanding how Indiana TOD deeds work

2. Gathering required property information

3. Obtaining the legal description and parcel number

4. Choosing your beneficiaries (primary and alternate)

5. Completing the transfer on death deed form

6. Understanding Indiana property ownership types

7. Properly executing the document

8. Understanding notarization requirements

9. Filing with your County Recorder

10. Understanding recording fees

11. How to revoke or change your TOD deed

12. What happens at your death

13. How beneficiaries claim the property

Common Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Scenarios

Parent to Children

• Most common use of TOD deeds

• Pass family home to children

• Avoid probate delays

• Keep control during lifetime

• Simple succession planning

Single Property Owner

• Individual with no spouse

• Want to leave property to specific person

• Avoid probate process

• Maintain flexibility to change

• Cost-effective planning

Second Marriage Planning

• Want to leave property to children from first marriage

• Maintain control during lifetime

• Avoid potential conflicts

• Clear succession plan

• Can be changed if needed

Elderly Parent Planning

• Senior homeowners

• Medicaid planning considerations

• Want to avoid probate for heirs

• Keep property for life

• Simple, affordable solution

Investment Property Transfer

• Leave rental property to heirs

• Avoid probate delays

• Keep generating income during life

• Maintain full control to sell if needed

• Clear succession

Multiple Beneficiaries

• Leave property to several children

• Each receives equal share

• Avoid family disputes

• Clear, documented plan

• Automatic transfer

What Makes Our Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Template Different?

✓ Indiana-Specific – Complies with all Indiana Code § 32-17-14 requirements
✓ Proper Formatting – Meets Indiana's strict recording standards
✓ Up-to-Date – Reflects current Indiana law (effective since 2012)
✓ Professionally Drafted – Created by legal document preparation experts
✓ Easy to Customize – Clear blanks for your specific information
✓ Multiple Beneficiaries – Supports primary and alternate beneficiaries
✓ Revocation Instructions – Complete guidance on how to change or cancel
✓ Multiple Formats – Work in the format that suits you best
✓ Instant Access – Download immediately after purchase

Indiana Recording Requirements

To properly record your Indiana transfer on death deed, you'll need:

1. Completed and signed transfer on death deed

2. Notarized acknowledgment (must be signed in front of notary)

3. Recording fee payment (varies by county, typically $15-$30)

4. Proper formatting with required margins

5. Legal description and parcel identification number

6. Property address

7. Beneficiary information (names and addresses)

8. Return address for recorded deed

CRITICAL: The TOD deed must be recorded BEFORE your death to be effective!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Not recording the deed – TOD deed only works if recorded before death
❌ Incomplete legal description – Must match your current deed exactly
❌ Missing parcel identification number – Required in Indiana
❌ Improper notarization – Must be signed in front of notary
❌ Missing notarization – Required for recording
❌ Using wrong County Recorder office – Must record in county where property located
❌ Not naming alternate beneficiaries – What if primary beneficiary dies first?
❌ Not updating after life changes – Update if beneficiaries die or circumstances change
❌ Conflicting with will – Coordinate with your overall estate plan
❌ Not telling beneficiaries – Beneficiaries should know the deed exists

Our Indiana transfer on death deed template includes detailed instructions to help you avoid these common pitfalls.

Understanding Indiana Beneficiary Designations

When completing your Indiana TOD deed, you can designate:

Primary Beneficiaries:

• Person(s) who will receive property when you die

• Can name one or multiple beneficiaries

• Multiple beneficiaries receive equal shares unless specified

• Can specify percentages for unequal distribution

Alternate Beneficiaries:

• Backup beneficiaries if primary dies before you

• Highly recommended to avoid probate

• Ensures your wishes are carried out

• Prevents property from going through probate

Types of Ownership for Multiple Beneficiaries:

• Tenants in Common – Each owns separate share (default)

• Joint Tenants with Right of Survivorship – Survivors inherit deceased beneficiary's share

• Must specify which type you want

How Beneficiaries Claim Property After Your Death

What Beneficiaries Need to Do:

1. Obtain Death Certificate – Get certified copy of your death certificate

2. Prepare Affidavit – Complete affidavit stating you have died and deed is in effect

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

4. No Court Required – No probate court involvement needed

5. Immediate Ownership – Beneficiaries own property once documents recorded

Documents Needed:

• Certified copy of death certificate

• Affidavit confirming death and TOD deed

• Original recorded TOD deed reference

• No court orders required

• No attorney necessary (though may be helpful)

This simple process is much faster and cheaper than probate!

Revoking or Changing Your Indiana TOD Deed

You Can Change Your Mind:

One of the best features of TOD deeds is that you can revoke or change them anytime during your life.

Ways to Revoke:

1. Record a Revocation – Sign and record a formal revocation document

2. Record a New TOD Deed – New TOD deed automatically revokes prior inconsistent deed

3. Sell the Property – Selling property automatically revokes the TOD deed

4. Execute a New Deed – Transferring property to someone else revokes TOD deed

Important Notes:

• Revocation must be recorded before your death

• Simply destroying the document doesn't revoke it

• Must record revocation in same county as original

• Beneficiaries have no rights until your death

Our package includes revocation instructions and forms.

Indiana Transfer on Death Deed vs. Living Trust

Transfer on Death Deed:

• ✓ Simple to create

• ✓ Inexpensive ($18 + recording)

• ✓ Easy to revoke

• ✓ Works for single property

• ✓ No ongoing maintenance

• ✗ Only covers real estate

• ✗ Limited planning features

Living Trust:

• ✓ Comprehensive estate planning

• ✓ Covers all assets

• ✓ Provides ongoing management

• ✓ Disability planning included

• ✗ More expensive to create

• ✗ More complex

• ✗ Requires ongoing funding

Best Choice:

• TOD Deed: Single property, simple estate, budget-conscious

• Living Trust: Multiple properties, complex estate, comprehensive planning

• Both: Use TOD deed for now, create trust later if needed

Indianapolis and Central Indiana

Marion County (Indianapolis):

• State capital and largest city

• Most active real estate market

• TOD deeds commonly used

• Multiple recording offices

• Professional estate planning community

Hamilton County (Carmel/Fishers/Noblesville):

• Affluent northern suburbs

• High property values

• Active estate planning market

• Strong recording office support

• Growing use of TOD deeds

Other Central Counties:

• Hendricks, Hancock, Johnson, Boone

• Suburban growth areas

• Increasing TOD deed awareness

• Family estate planning

• Avoiding probate common goal

Fort Wayne and Northern Indiana

Allen County (Fort Wayne):

• Second largest city

• Active real estate market

• Growing TOD deed usage

• Professional community support

• Estate planning services available

Lake County (Northwest Indiana):

• Chicago suburbs

• Industrial heritage

• Active recording office

• TOD deeds gaining popularity

• Probate avoidance important

St. Joseph County (South Bend):

• University of Notre Dame

• Urban and suburban properties

• Professional estate planning

• TOD deeds well-understood

• Recording office helpful

Advantages of Indiana Transfer on Death Deeds

Probate Avoidance:

• No probate court involvement

• Saves months or years of time

• Avoids probate attorney fees

• Avoids court costs

• No public probate process

• Immediate transfer to beneficiaries

Control During Lifetime:

• Maintain complete ownership

• Sell property if you want

• Mortgage or refinance freely

• Change beneficiaries anytime

• Revoke deed if circumstances change

• No permission needed from beneficiaries

Cost Savings:

• Much cheaper than probate ($18 + recording vs. thousands)

• No ongoing costs

• No attorney required (for simple situations)

• One-time expense

• Saves beneficiaries money

Simplicity:

• Easy to understand

• Simple to complete

• No complex legal language

• Straightforward process

• Beneficiaries can handle without attorney

Flexibility:

• Name multiple beneficiaries

• Include alternate beneficiaries

• Specify ownership type

• Change anytime

• Complete control

Medicaid Planning:

• Generally doesn't affect eligibility

• Not considered a gift

• Retain ownership

• Consult Medicaid planner for your situation

Limitations and Considerations

What TOD Deeds DON'T Do:

❌ Only covers real estate – Doesn't transfer bank accounts, cars, etc.

❌ No disability planning – Doesn't help if you become incapacitated before death

❌ Limited creditor protection – Property still subject to your creditors during life

❌ Doesn't avoid estate recovery – Medicaid may still file claim after death

❌ No ongoing management – Doesn't provide for property management if you become unable

❌ May not prevent family disputes – Disappointed heirs may still contest

When You Might Need More:

• Multiple properties in different states

• Complex family situations

• Need disability planning

• Want ongoing management

• Significant estate tax concerns

• Business ownership interests

For these situations, consult with an estate planning attorney about a comprehensive plan.

Coordinating with Your Overall Estate Plan

How TOD Deeds Fit:

With a Will:

• TOD deed takes priority over will

• Property passes under TOD deed, not will

• Will covers everything else

• Coordinate to avoid conflicts

• Update both when circumstances change

With a Trust:

• Can't transfer property already in a trust

• May use TOD deed for property outside trust

• Consider transferring property to trust instead

• Coordinate with estate planning attorney

With Beneficiary Designations:

• Similar to life insurance or retirement accounts

• Passes outside of will

• Coordinate all beneficiary designations

• Ensure consistent estate plan

Important: Make sure all your estate planning documents work together!

Southern Indiana Considerations

Bloomington (Monroe County):

• University town

• Active real estate market

• Student rental properties

• TOD deeds useful for rental property succession

• Professional estate planning community

Jeffersonville/New Albany (Clark/Floyd Counties):

• Louisville, KY metro area

• Growing suburbs

• Family properties

• TOD deeds increasingly popular

• Probate avoidance valued

Evansville and Southwest Indiana

Vanderburgh County (Evansville):

• Third largest city

• Southern Indiana hub

• Active estate planning market

• TOD deeds well-understood

• Recording office experienced

What Happens After You Record Your TOD Deed?

During Your Lifetime:

• Nothing changes in terms of ownership

• You remain the sole owner

• Property taxes remain your responsibility

• You can sell, mortgage, or use property freely

• You can revoke or change the TOD deed

• Beneficiaries have NO rights during your life

• Beneficiaries cannot force you to do anything

At Your Death:

• Property automatically transfers to beneficiaries

• No probate required

• No court involvement needed

• Beneficiaries record death certificate

• Ownership transfers immediately upon proper recording

• Much faster than probate process

For Beneficiaries:

• Receive property without probate

• Must record death certificate and affidavit

• Pay recording fee (minimal)

• Take ownership immediately

• May need to deal with mortgage if any

• Become responsible for property taxes going forward

When NOT to Use a Transfer on Death Deed

Consider other options if:

Complex Situations:

• You have a complex estate

• Multiple properties in different states

• Need ongoing management provisions

• Want comprehensive disability planning

Family Concerns:

• Expect family disputes

• Want to control property after death

• Need to provide for minor children

• Want to protect against beneficiary's creditors

Special Circumstances:

• Property has significant mortgage

• Want to place conditions on transfer

• Need special needs planning

• Business or commercial property

• Want to control sale timing

For these situations, consult an estate planning attorney about trusts or other options.

Additional Indiana Estate Planning Forms Available

Need other Indiana estate planning forms? We also offer:

• Indiana Quitclaim Deeds – For immediate transfers

Ready to Avoid Probate for Your Indiana Property?

Download your Indiana 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 Indiana real estate to your beneficiaries automatically—avoiding probate and saving your loved ones time and money!

Get Instant Access - $18

Perfect for All Indiana Property Types

Whether you're planning for:

• Indianapolis and Marion County properties

• Hamilton County and northern suburbs

• Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana homes

• Northwest Indiana properties (Lake County)

• South Bend and Michiana properties

• Bloomington and Southern Indiana homes

• Evansville and Southwest Indiana properties

• Rural properties throughout Indiana

• Investment and rental properties

• Farm and agricultural land

• Vacation homes

• Primary residences

Our Indiana transfer on death deed template provides an affordable, effective way to ensure your property passes smoothly to your beneficiaries—avoiding probate while maintaining complete control during your lifetime.

Download Your Indiana Transfer on Death Deed Template Now - $18

Free Indiana TOD Deed Information

While we offer our comprehensive Indiana transfer on death deed template for $18, we provide this valuable information about Indiana TOD deeds for free to help you understand this important estate planning tool:

Free Resources Included on This Page:

• How Indiana TOD deeds work

• Benefits and limitations

• When to use (and not use) TOD deeds

• Comparison with other estate planning options

• Requirements and recording process

• How beneficiaries claim property

• Revocation information

What You Get for $18:

• Professionally drafted Indiana TOD deed form

• Multiple formats (Word, PDF, Google Docs)

• Complete step-by-step instructions

• Recording guidelines for all Indiana counties

• Revocation forms and instructions

• Beneficiary claim instructions

• Organized course platform access

• Instant download

This small investment can save your beneficiaries thousands in probate costs and months of delays!

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. Transfer on death deeds have specific legal requirements and limitations. You are solely responsible for ensuring the forms are lawful and appropriate for your specific circumstances.

For complex estates, significant assets, or complicated family situations, we strongly recommend consulting with a licensed estate planning attorney. Transfer on death deeds may not be suitable for all situations.

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.

📞 Document (Deed Preparation) or Mobile Notary Services: Call 1-877-540-6104 for professional notarization at your location