MN TOD Deed Forms
MN TOD Deed Forms
Looking for a Minnesota transfer on death deed form? Our downloadable Minnesota 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 Minnesota Transfer on Death Deed Template Now - $18
A Minnesota transfer on death deed (also called a Minnesota TOD deed or Minnesota beneficiary 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, a Minnesota TOD deed only takes effect upon your death, allowing you to maintain complete ownership and control during your lifetime.
✔ Instant Download – Get immediate access to your Minnesota 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 Minnesota Statutes § 507.071 requirements
✔ Affordable – Just $18 for complete access to all formats
Minnesota transfer on death deed form (Word, PDF, and Google Doc formats)
Editable Minnesota TOD deed template you can customize
Fillable Minnesota TOD deed PDF for easy completion
Step-by-step instructions for proper execution
Recording guidelines for Minnesota counties
Revocation instructions (how to change or cancel)
Access to our organized course platform with all templates
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 Medical Assistance Eligibility – Unlike gifts, TOD deeds don't trigger Medical Assistance penalties
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 Minnesota recording requirements
Complete the Form – Fill out our Minnesota TOD deed template with your information and beneficiary details
Sign Before a Notary – You must sign in the presence of a notary public (during your lifetime)
Record the Deed – File with the County Recorder or Registrar of Titles where your property is located (must be done before death)
Property Transfers at Death – Upon your death, property automatically transfers to your named beneficiaries
No Probate Required – Beneficiaries receive the property without going through probate court
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 or Registrar of Titles before the owner's death
Must include complete legal property description
Must include the property's parcel identification number (PIN)
Must name the beneficiary or beneficiaries (designated beneficiaries)
Can name alternate beneficiaries in case primary beneficiary dies first
Must comply with Minnesota's formatting and margin requirements (1" margins)
Can be revoked or changed anytime before death
Must comply with Minnesota's specific statutory language requirements
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
Generally doesn't affect Medical Assistance
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 Medical Assistance 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 Medical Assistance eligibility
Loss of control
Our Minnesota 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 Medical Assistance eligibility
Lake property owners planning succession
Farm owners with simple succession plans
Get instant access to your Minnesota TOD deed form download for just $18. Available in editable Word format, fillable PDF, and Google Docs for maximum convenience.
Q: What is a transfer on death deed in Minnesota?
A: A Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
A: Yes, Minnesota authorized TOD deeds in 2008 under Minnesota Statutes § 507.071. They are a fully legal and recognized estate planning tool in Minnesota.
Q: Do I need an attorney to create a Minnesota TOD deed?
A: No, you don't legally need an attorney. Our downloadable Minnesota transfer on death deed template includes complete instructions for straightforward transfers.
Q: How much does it cost to file a Minnesota TOD deed?
A: Recording fees vary by county, typically ranging from $46-$70. There are no transfer taxes when recording a TOD deed during your lifetime.
Q: Does a Minnesota 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 Medical Assistance (Medicaid) eligibility?
A: Generally no. Unlike gifts or life estate deeds, TOD deeds typically don't affect Medical Assistance eligibility because you retain full ownership until death. Consult with a Medical Assistance 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 a Minnesota TOD deed?
A: Yes, you can name multiple beneficiaries who will receive the property as tenants in common (equal shares unless specified differently) upon your death.
Editable Word Document – Fully customizable Minnesota transfer on death deed template in MS Word format
Fillable PDF – Complete your Minnesota TOD deed PDF digitally with ease
Google Docs – Cloud-based access to edit your Minnesota transfer on death deed form from anywhere
No Transfer Fee When Recording:
No transfer fee applies when you record the TOD deed during your lifetime
No Real Estate Transfer Return (RETR) required at recording
Only pay the standard recording fee ($46-$70 typically)
Transfer Fee at Death:
Minnesota's $3.00 per $1,000 transfer fee (0.3%) applies when property transfers at death
Beneficiaries responsible for paying transfer fee
RETR must be filed when beneficiaries record affidavit
Much less expensive than probate
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
Medical Assistance (Medicaid) Considerations:
TOD deeds generally don't affect Medical Assistance eligibility
Property still owned by you until death
Not considered a gift or transfer
Medical Assistance estate recovery may apply after death
Consult Medical Assistance planning attorney
Homestead Classification:
You can maintain homestead classification during your lifetime
TOD deed doesn't affect your homestead status
Significant property tax benefits
Beneficiaries must apply for their own homestead after transfer
Consult professionals for advice specific to your situation
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.
Our Minnesota transfer on death deed form is valid in all 87 Minnesota counties, including:
Twin Cities Metro:
Hennepin County (Minneapolis)
Ramsey County (St. Paul)
Dakota County (Hastings)
Anoka County (Anoka)
Washington County (Stillwater)
Scott County (Shakopee)
Carver County (Chaska)
Wright County (Buffalo)
Greater Minnesota:
St. Louis County (Duluth)
Olmsted County (Rochester)
Stearns County (St. Cloud)
Clay County (Moorhead)
Otter Tail County (Fergus Falls)
Blue Earth County (Mankato)
Crow Wing County (Brainerd)
Beltrami County (Bemidji)
Lake Country:
Itasca County (Grand Rapids)
Cass County (Walker)
Crow Wing County (Brainerd)
Becker County (Detroit Lakes)
Southern Minnesota:
Goodhue County (Red Wing)
Rice County (Faribault)
Winona County (Winona)
Freeborn County (Albert Lea)
And all other Minnesota counties
Our comprehensive instructions guide you through:
Understanding how Minnesota TOD deeds work
Gathering required property information
Obtaining the legal description and parcel identification number (PIN)
Understanding Abstract vs. Torrens (Registered Land) system
Choosing your beneficiaries (primary and alternate)
Completing the transfer on death deed form
Understanding Minnesota property ownership types
Properly executing the document
Understanding notarization requirements
Filing with your County Recorder or Registrar of Titles
Understanding recording fees
How to revoke or change your TOD deed
What happens at your death
How beneficiaries claim the property
Transfer fee obligations at death
Parent to Children
Most common use of TOD deeds
Pass family home to children
Avoid probate delays
Keep control during lifetime
Simple succession planning
Lake Property Transfer
Pass cabin to family members
Avoid probate for vacation home
Keep cabin in the family
Maintain control to sell if needed
Multiple generation planning
Farm Succession Planning
Transfer farmland to next generation
Avoid probate delays
Keep farming during lifetime
Can change if circumstances change
Simple agricultural succession
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
Medical Assistance planning considerations
Want to avoid probate for heirs
Keep property for life
Simple, affordable solution
✓ Minnesota-Specific – Complies with all Minnesota Statutes § 507.071 requirements
✓ Proper Formatting – Meets Minnesota's strict recording standards (1" margins)
✓ Up-to-Date – Reflects current Minnesota law (effective since 2008)
✓ Professionally Drafted – Created by legal document preparation experts
✓ Easy to Customize – Clear blanks for your specific information
✓ Multiple Beneficiaries – Supports primary and alternate beneficiaries
✓ Torrens Compatible – Works for both Abstract and Registered Land
✓ 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
To properly record your Minnesota transfer on death deed, you'll need:
Completed and signed transfer on death deed
Notarized acknowledgment (must be signed in front of notary)
Recording fee payment (varies by county, typically $46-$70)
Proper formatting with required margins (1" on all sides)
Legal description and parcel identification number (PIN)
Property address
Beneficiary information (names and addresses)
Return address for recorded deed
Must specify whether Abstract or Torrens property
CRITICAL: The TOD deed must be recorded BEFORE your death to be effective!
❌ 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 (PIN) – Required in Minnesota
❌ Using wrong recording system – Abstract vs. Torrens/Registered Land
❌ Improper notarization – Must be signed in front of notary
❌ Missing notarization – Required for recording
❌ Wrong margins – Minnesota requires 1" margins on all sides
❌ Using wrong recording 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 Minnesota transfer on death deed template includes detailed instructions to help you avoid these common pitfalls.
Minnesota has TWO property title systems:
1. Abstract (Regular System):
Most Minnesota properties
Title based on chain of abstracts
Attorney's title opinion typically required
County Recorder handles recording
2. Torrens (Registered Land System):
Certificate of Title system
State guarantees title
More properties in Twin Cities area
Registrar of Titles handles recording
Look for "Torrens Certificate" or "Certificate of Title"
How to Know Which System:
Check your current deed or title documents
If it mentions "Certificate of Title" or "Torrens," use Registrar of Titles
If no mention, likely Abstract system - use County Recorder
Our template works for both systems
Specify which system on the deed
When completing your Minnesota 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 as tenants in common (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 Distribution:
Per Stirpes – If beneficiary dies, their share goes to their descendants
Per Capita – Share divided equally among surviving beneficiaries
Must specify which method you want
What Beneficiaries Need to Do:
Obtain Death Certificate – Get certified copy of your death certificate
Prepare Affidavit – Complete affidavit stating you have died and TOD deed is in effect
Record Documents – Record death certificate and affidavit with County Recorder or Registrar
File RETR and Pay Transfer Fee – Complete Real Estate Transfer Return and pay 0.3% transfer fee
No Court Required – No probate court involvement needed
Ownership Complete – Beneficiaries own property once documents recorded
Documents Needed:
Certified copy of death certificate
Affidavit confirming death and TOD deed effectiveness
Real Estate Transfer Return (RETR)
Transfer fee payment (0.3% of property value)
No court orders required
No probate attorney necessary
This simple process is much faster and cheaper than probate!
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:
Record a Revocation – Sign and record a formal revocation document
Record a New TOD Deed – New TOD deed automatically revokes prior inconsistent deed
Sell the Property – Selling property automatically revokes the TOD deed
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
Must use same recording system (Abstract or Torrens)
Beneficiaries have no rights until your death
Our package includes revocation instructions and forms.
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
Hennepin County (Minneapolis):
Largest population in Minnesota
Urban and suburban properties
Many Torrens properties
TOD deeds commonly used
Professional estate planning community
Ramsey County (St. Paul):
State capital
Urban properties
Mix of Abstract and Torrens
Active TOD deed usage
Recording office experienced
Dakota County:
Southern suburbs
Growing communities
Family estate planning
TOD deeds popular
Strong recording office support
Other Metro Counties:
Anoka, Washington, Scott, Carver
Suburban growth areas
Increasing TOD deed awareness
Family estate planning focus
Professional support available
Popular Lake Areas:
Minnesota's 10,000+ lakes make TOD deeds particularly valuable:
Brainerd Lakes (Crow Wing County):
Popular vacation area
Family cabins
Multi-generational properties
TOD deeds preserve family ownership
Avoid probate for cabins
Mille Lacs Lake:
Large lake properties
Fishing cabins
Family succession planning
TOD deeds common
Alexandria Lakes (Douglas County):
Multiple lakes
Year-round and seasonal homes
Retirement destination
Estate planning important
Detroit Lakes (Becker County):
Western Minnesota lakes
Family cabins
Succession planning
TOD deeds preserve ownership
Northwoods Lakes:
Itasca, Cass, Aitkin counties
Remote cabins
Family traditions
Keep property in family
Probate Avoidance:
No probate court involvement
Saves months or years of time
Avoids probate attorney fees (typically 3-5% of estate)
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 significant money
Simplicity:
Easy to understand
Simple to complete
Straightforward Minnesota statute
Clear process
Beneficiaries can handle with minimal help
Flexibility:
Name multiple beneficiaries
Include alternate beneficiaries
Specify distribution method
Change anytime
Complete control
Medical Assistance Planning:
Generally doesn't affect eligibility
Not considered a gift
Retain ownership
Consult Medical Assistance planner for your situation
Rochester (Olmsted County):
Mayo Clinic
Medical center
High incomes
Professional estate planning
TOD deeds well-understood
Duluth (St. Louis County):
Lake Superior port
Northern Minnesota
Active estate planning market
TOD deeds common
Recording office helpful
St. Cloud (Stearns County):
Central Minnesota hub
University town
Growing use of TOD deeds
Estate planning services available
Moorhead (Clay County):
Fargo-Moorhead metro
Western Minnesota
North Dakota border
TOD deeds gaining popularity
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 – Medical Assistance 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.
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!
Farm Succession Planning:
Why TOD Deeds Work for Farms:
Simple succession to next generation
Avoid probate delays
Keep farming during lifetime
Can change if needed
Preserve agricultural classification
Considerations:
Agricultural land valuation
Green Acres program
Family farming traditions
Multi-generational operations
Coordinate with tax advisor
Alternative: Living Trust
May be better for large farm operations
Provides ongoing management
Disability planning included
More comprehensive
Discuss with farm attorney
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
Beneficiaries file RETR and pay transfer fee (0.3%)
Ownership transfers upon proper recording
Much faster than probate process
For Beneficiaries:
Receive property without probate
Must record death certificate and affidavit
Must file Real Estate Transfer Return (RETR)
Must pay transfer fee (0.3% of property value)
Take ownership immediately
May need to deal with mortgage if any
Become responsible for property taxes
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.
Need other Minnesota estate planning forms? We also offer:
Minnesota Quitclaim Deeds – For immediate transfers
Download your Minnesota 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 Minnesota real estate to your beneficiaries automatically—avoiding probate and saving your loved ones time and money!
Whether you're planning for:
Twin Cities metro properties (Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota)
Minnesota lake properties and cabins (Brainerd, Mille Lacs, Alexandria)
Rochester and Southern Minnesota homes
Duluth and North Shore properties
St. Cloud and Central Minnesota homes
Moorhead and Western Minnesota properties
Northwoods vacation properties (Vilas, Oneida)
Farm and agricultural land
Primary residences throughout Minnesota
Investment and rental properties
Our Minnesota 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 and working within Minnesota's unique two-title-system framework.
Download Your Minnesota Transfer on Death Deed Template Now - $18
While we offer our comprehensive Minnesota transfer on death deed template for $18, we provide this valuable information about Minnesota TOD deeds for free to help you understand this important estate planning tool:
Free Resources Included on This Page:
How Minnesota TOD deeds work
Benefits and limitations
When to use (and not use) TOD deeds
Comparison with other estate planning options
Requirements and recording process
Abstract vs. Torrens system explained
How beneficiaries claim property
Transfer fee obligations
Revocation information
What You Get for $18:
Professionally drafted Minnesota TOD deed form
Multiple formats (Word, PDF, Google Docs)
Complete step-by-step instructions
Recording guidelines for all Minnesota counties
Abstract and Torrens system guidance
Revocation forms and instructions
Beneficiary claim instructions
RETR filing guidance
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