Missouri Transfer on Death Deed Form – Downloadable Beneficiary Deed Template 

Avoid Probate in Missouri with a Simple Beneficiary Deed

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

Download Your Missouri Beneficiary Deed Template Now - $18

What is a Missouri Transfer on Death Deed?

A Missouri Transfer on Death Deed (also called a Missouri beneficiary deed) is a legal document that allows Missouri 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 Missouri Beneficiary Deed Template?

✔ Instant Download – Get immediate access to your Missouri 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 Missouri Revised Statutes § 461.025 requirements
✔ Affordable – Just $18 for complete access to all formats

What's Included in Your Purchase:

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

• Editable Missouri beneficiary deed template you can customize

• Fillable Missouri TOD deed PDF for easy completion

• Step-by-step instructions for proper execution

• Recording guidelines for Missouri counties

• Access to our organized course platform with all templates

Benefits of a Missouri 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

Medicaid Planning – Can help protect assets while maintaining eligibility in some cases

How Does a Missouri Beneficiary Deed Work?

1. Complete the Form – Fill out our Missouri 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 of Deeds 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

Missouri Beneficiary Deed Requirements:

• Must be recorded with the Recorder of Deeds in the county 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 property's parcel number

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

• Must include the proper statutory language per Missouri RSMo § 461.025

• Must state it is a "beneficiary deed" and transfers property at death

• Must comply with Missouri's formatting requirements

• May require a Statement of No Tax Due or Affidavit of No Consideration

Who Should Use a Missouri Transfer on Death Deed?

Our Missouri 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

• Lake property and vacation home owners

• Retirees planning their estate distribution

• Those concerned about Medicaid estate recovery

Download Your Missouri Beneficiary Deed Template Today

Get instant access to your Missouri 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 a Missouri Transfer on Death Deed valid?
A: Yes, Missouri officially recognizes beneficiary deeds (Transfer on Death Deeds) under RSMo § 461.025 et seq., effective since 1989. Missouri was actually one of the first states to adopt this probate-avoidance tool.

Q: Can I change or revoke my Missouri 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 Recorder of Deeds.

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

Q: Do I need an attorney to complete a Missouri Transfer on Death Deed?
A: Missouri law restricts non-attorneys from preparing legal documents for others. Our downloadable Missouri beneficiary deed template is for your personal use with instructions for straightforward transfers. For complex situations, consult an attorney.

Q: Can I name multiple beneficiaries on a Missouri beneficiary deed?
A: Yes, you can name multiple beneficiaries and specify whether they receive equal shares or different percentages. You can also name alternate beneficiaries.

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 a Missouri beneficiary deed?
A: Recording fees vary by county, typically ranging from $25-$50 for the first page plus fees for additional pages. Check with your local Recorder of Deeds office.

Q: Do beneficiaries need to do anything after my death?
A: Yes, 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 a Missouri 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 married couples use a Missouri beneficiary deed?
A: Yes, married couples can create a joint beneficiary deed. Both spouses must sign if the property is held jointly.

Multiple Format Options

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

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

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

Missouri Beneficiary Deed vs. Living Trust

Beneficiary Deed:

• Simple, one-time recording

• Costs $18 + recording fee

• 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-$3,500+

• Can cover multiple assets

• Ongoing management required

• Provides more comprehensive planning

• Private document

For single-property owners, a Missouri 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 service at any time—and we'll credit back the full $18 cost of this template toward your service fee.

Serving All Missouri Counties

Our Missouri Transfer on Death Deed form is valid in all 114 Missouri counties and the City of St. Louis, including:

• St. Louis County (Clayton)

• Jackson County (Kansas City)

• St. Charles County (St. Charles)

• Jefferson County (Hillsboro)

• Greene County (Springfield)

• Clay County (Liberty)

• Boone County (Columbia)

• Cass County (Harrisonville)

• Franklin County (Union)

• Jasper County (Joplin)

• St. Louis City (independent city)

• Platte County (Platte City)

• Buchanan County (St. Joseph)

• Cape Girardeau County (Jackson)

• Christian County (Ozark)

• Cole County (Jefferson City)

• Taney County (Forsyth)

• Pettis County (Sedalia)

• Camden County (Camdenton)

• Scott County (Benton)

• And all other Missouri counties

Important Missouri-Specific Considerations

Joint Ownership – If property is owned by multiple people, all owners must sign the beneficiary deed to designate beneficiaries.

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

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

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

Statutory Language Required – Missouri requires the deed to clearly state it is a "beneficiary deed" and that the transfer occurs at death.

No Transfer Tax at Recording – Missouri does not charge transfer tax when recording a beneficiary deed (transfer occurs at death, not recording).

Multiple Properties – Each property requires a separate beneficiary deed.

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 parcel number

3. Completing the Missouri beneficiary deed form

4. Choosing and naming beneficiaries (primary and alternate)

5. Properly executing the document

6. Understanding notarization requirements

7. Preparing Statement of No Tax Due or Affidavit of No Consideration

8. Filing with your County Recorder of Deeds

9. What beneficiaries need to do after your death

10. How to revoke or modify the deed if needed

Tax Considerations for Missouri Beneficiary Deeds

No Transfer Tax at Recording – Missouri does not charge real estate transfer tax when recording a beneficiary deed (only when property actually transfers at death)

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

Property Tax – Generally no property tax reassessment upon inheritance in most Missouri counties

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

Missouri Estate Tax – Missouri has no state estate tax (repealed in 2010)

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

What Makes Our Missouri Beneficiary Deed Template Different?

✓ Missouri-Specific – Complies with all RSMo § 461.025 requirements
✓ Statutory Language – Includes required "beneficiary deed" designation and transfer-at-death language
✓ Up-to-Date – Reflects current Missouri law
✓ Professionally Drafted – Created by legal document preparation experts
✓ Easy to Customize – Clear blanks for your specific information
✓ Tax Form Guidance – Instructions for Statement of No Tax Due
✓ 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 parcel number – Required in Missouri
❌ Not designating as "beneficiary deed" – Must clearly state it's a beneficiary deed
❌ Missing notarization – Required for recording
❌ Not all joint owners signing – All owners must sign if jointly owned
❌ Forgetting about mortgages – Beneficiaries inherit subject to loans
❌ Not updating after life changes – Review and update as circumstances change
❌ Missing Statement of No Tax Due – Required at recording
❌ Using for multiple properties – Each property needs its own deed

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

Understanding Missouri Beneficiary Deed Ownership Options

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

Equal Shares – All beneficiaries receive equal portions

Unequal Shares – Specify different percentages for each beneficiary

Tenants in Common – Default option; beneficiaries own separate shares

Joint Tenants with Right of Survivorship – Can specify if desired

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

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

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

Revoking a Missouri Beneficiary Deed

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

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

2. Recording a New Beneficiary Deed – A later beneficiary deed revokes an earlier one for that property

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

4. Recording a Deed Without Beneficiary Language – Transfers property and revokes beneficiary designation

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 Missouri vital records

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

3. Gather Supporting Documents – May need will or other estate documents

4. Record Documents – File affidavit and death certificate with Recorder of Deeds

5. Complete Transfer – Property title transfers to beneficiaries

6. Pay Any Transfer Tax – Missouri charges transfer tax on the actual transfer at death

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

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

The transfer is typically completed within a few weeks, compared to 6-18 months for probate.

Our instructions include detailed post-death procedures for beneficiaries.

Missouri Lake Property and Vacation Home Considerations

Missouri's beneficiary deeds are especially popular for:

Lake of the Ozarks Properties – Vacation homes and waterfront properties

Table Rock Lake Properties – Branson area vacation homes

Truman Lake Properties – Lake properties in west-central Missouri

Bull Shoals Lake Properties – Southern Missouri lake homes

Farm and Ranch Land – Agricultural properties throughout Missouri

Investment Properties – Rental properties and real estate investments

Second Homes – Vacation properties anywhere in Missouri

Joint Tenancy and Missouri Beneficiary Deeds

Important: If you own property as joint tenants with right of survivorship:

• The property automatically passes to surviving joint tenant(s) at your death

• Your beneficiary deed only takes effect if you're the last surviving owner

• All joint tenants should sign the beneficiary deed to designate beneficiaries

• Alternatively, sever the joint tenancy first, then use beneficiary deeds

Our instructions explain these nuances in detail.

Missouri's Tenancy by the Entirety and Beneficiary Deeds

Missouri recognizes tenancy by the entirety for married couples. If you hold property this way:

• Both spouses must sign the beneficiary deed

• Property has automatic right of survivorship

• Creditor protection benefits during life

• Beneficiary deed specifies what happens when both spouses are deceased

This combination provides both probate avoidance and creditor protection.

Missouri Transfer Tax at Death

Important: While Missouri doesn't charge transfer tax when you record a beneficiary deed, transfer tax is assessed when the property actually transfers at death.

Missouri Transfer Tax:

• State transfer tax: $0.30 per $100 of value

• County transfer tax: Varies (typically $0.05-$0.15 per $100)

• Total typically around $0.35-$0.45 per $100 of property value

• Beneficiaries are responsible for paying at time of transfer

This is still much less expensive than probate costs.

Missouri's Long History with Beneficiary Deeds

Missouri was a pioneer state for beneficiary deeds:

✓ Adopted in 1989 – over 35 years of successful use ✓ One of the first states to offer this tool ✓ Extensive case law supporting validity ✓ Widely understood by Missouri title companies ✓ Well-tested in Missouri courts ✓ Simple execution process ✓ Clear statutory authority ✓ Proven probate-avoidance method

Understanding Missouri Property Ownership Types

Sole Ownership – Single person owns entire interest

Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship – Co-owners with automatic survivorship rights

Tenancy in Common – Co-owners with separate shares; no automatic survivorship

Tenancy by the Entirety – Available only to married couples; provides creditor protection and automatic survivorship

Community Property – Not recognized in Missouri

Our template accommodates all ownership types when designating beneficiaries.

Missouri Homestead and Senior Property Tax Protections

Missouri offers various property tax benefits:

Senior Citizen Property Tax Credit – Available to seniors over 65

Disabled Veteran Exemption – Available to disabled veterans

Homestead Preservation Credit – Protects against increases in assessed value

When property transfers via beneficiary deed, beneficiaries should inquire about:

• Whether they qualify for similar exemptions

• How to reapply for benefits

• Impact on property tax assessment

St. Louis City and County Considerations

St. Louis City is an independent city (not part of St. Louis County):

• Has its own Recorder of Deeds office

• Separate recording requirements

• Different fee structure

• Must record in St. Louis City for properties within city limits

St. Louis County is separate:

• Covers surrounding municipalities

• Different Recorder of Deeds office in Clayton

• Must record in St. Louis County for properties in the county

Make sure you record in the correct office based on property location.

Additional Missouri Real Estate Forms Available

Need other Missouri property forms? We also offer:

• Missouri Quitclaim Deeds – Quick transfers between trusted parties

• Missouri Warranty Deeds – For sales with title guarantees

• Missouri Special Warranty Deeds – Limited warranty protection

• Missouri Deed of Trust Forms – Secure property financing

Why Missouri's Beneficiary Deed Law Is Excellent

Missouri's beneficiary deed statute is highly effective:

✓ Over 35 years of proven success since 1989 ✓ Simple execution – just notarization required ✓ Easy revocation process ✓ No estate tax in Missouri ✓ Well-established case law ✓ Widely accepted by lenders and title companies ✓ Simple for beneficiaries to complete transfer ✓ Works with all types of real property ✓ Compatible with tenancy by the entirety

Ready to Avoid Probate in Missouri?

Download your Missouri 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 Missouri property to your loved ones without the hassle and expense of probate!

Get Instant Access - $18

Perfect for All Missouri Property Owners

Whether you own property in:

• Kansas City metro area

• St. Louis metro area

• Springfield or Columbia

• Lake of the Ozarks

• Branson and Southwest Missouri

• Cape Girardeau and Southeast Missouri

• Rural Missouri counties

Our Missouri beneficiary deed template provides an affordable, effective way to avoid probate and ensure your property passes smoothly to your chosen beneficiaries.

Download Your Missouri 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. Missouri law restricts non-attorney legal document preparation—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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