UT TOD Deed Forms
UT TOD Deed Forms
Looking for a Utah transfer on death deed form? Our downloadable Utah 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 Utah Transfer on Death Deed Template Now - $18
A Utah transfer on death deed (also called a Utah TOD deed or 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 Utah 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 Utah 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 Utah Code § 75-6-401 requirements
✔ Affordable – Just $18 for complete access to all formats
Utah transfer on death deed form (Word, PDF, and Google Doc formats)
Editable Utah TOD deed template you can customize
Fillable Utah TOD deed PDF for easy completion
Step-by-step instructions for proper execution
Recording guidelines for Utah 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 Medicaid Eligibility – Unlike gifts, TOD deeds don't trigger Medicaid 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 Utah recording requirements
Complete the Form – Fill out our Utah 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's office 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 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 (designated beneficiaries)
Can name alternate beneficiaries in case primary beneficiary dies first
Must comply with Utah's formatting and margin requirements
Can be revoked or changed anytime before death
Must include specific statutory language as required by Utah law
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 Medicaid
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
Our Utah 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
Mountain property owners planning succession
Vacation home owners with simple succession plans
Get instant access to your Utah 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 Utah?
A: A Utah 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 Utah?
A: Yes, Utah was one of the first states to authorize TOD deeds in 1998 under Utah Code § 75-6-401. They are a well-established and commonly used estate planning tool in Utah.
Q: Do I need an attorney to create a Utah TOD deed?
A: No, you don't legally need an attorney. Our downloadable Utah transfer on death deed template includes complete instructions for straightforward transfers.
Q: How much does it cost to file a Utah TOD deed?
A: Recording fees vary by county, typically ranging from $30-$50. Utah has relatively low recording fees and no state transfer tax when recording TOD deeds during your lifetime.
Q: Does a Utah 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 a Utah 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 Utah transfer on death deed template in MS Word format
Fillable PDF – Complete your Utah TOD deed PDF digitally with ease
Google Docs – Cloud-based access to edit your Utah transfer on death deed form from anywhere
No State Transfer Tax When Recording:
No transfer tax applies when you record the TOD deed during your lifetime
No state transfer taxes in Utah
Only pay the standard recording fee ($30-$50 typically)
One of the most affordable states for property transfers
Recording Fees:
Typically $30-$50 depending on county
No additional state taxes
Very affordable compared to most states
Simple fee structure
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:
Qualifying homeowners may have property tax benefits
You can maintain homestead exemption during your lifetime
TOD deed doesn't affect your homestead status
Beneficiaries must apply for their own exemption 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 Utah transfer on death deed form is valid in all 29 Utah counties, including:
Wasatch Front:
Salt Lake County (Salt Lake City)
Utah County (Provo)
Davis County (Farmington)
Weber County (Ogden)
Cache County (Logan)
Tooele County (Tooele)
Box Elder County (Brigham City)
Southern Utah:
Washington County (St. George)
Iron County (Cedar City)
Kane County (Kanab)
Garfield County (Panguitch)
Central Utah:
Sanpete County (Manti)
Sevier County (Richfield)
Juab County (Nephi)
Millard County (Fillmore)
Eastern Utah:
Summit County (Coalville)
Wasatch County (Heber City)
Duchesne County (Duchesne)
Uintah County (Vernal)
Carbon County (Price)
Emery County (Castle Dale)
Grand County (Moab)
San Juan County (Monticello)
And all other Utah counties
Our comprehensive instructions guide you through:
Understanding how Utah TOD deeds work
Gathering required property information
Obtaining the legal description and parcel identification number
Choosing your beneficiaries (primary and alternate)
Completing the transfer on death deed form
Understanding Utah property ownership types
Properly executing the document
Understanding notarization requirements
Filing with your County Recorder
Understanding recording fees
How to revoke or change your TOD deed
What happens at your death
How beneficiaries claim the property
Parent to Children
Most common use of TOD deeds
Pass family home to children
Avoid probate delays
Keep control during lifetime
Simple succession planning
Mountain Property Transfer
Pass ski properties or mountain homes
Avoid probate for vacation homes
Keep property in the family
Maintain control to sell if needed
Multi-generation planning
Second Home Planning
St. George vacation properties
Park City ski condos
Bear Lake cabins
Moab vacation homes
Clear 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
Medicaid planning considerations
Want to avoid probate for heirs
Keep property for life
Simple, affordable solution
✓ Utah-Specific – Complies with all Utah Code § 75-6-401 requirements
✓ Proper Formatting – Meets Utah's recording standards
✓ Up-to-Date – Reflects current Utah law (effective since 1998)
✓ Professionally Drafted – Created by legal document preparation experts
✓ Easy to Customize – Clear blanks for your specific information
✓ Multiple Beneficiaries – Supports primary and alternate beneficiaries
✓ Pioneer State – Based on Utah's 25+ years of TOD deed experience
✓ 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 Utah 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 $30-$50)
Return address for recorded deed
Proper formatting with required margins
Legal description and parcel identification number
Property address
Beneficiary information (names and addresses)
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 – Required in Utah
❌ 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 Utah transfer on death deed template includes detailed instructions to help you avoid these common pitfalls.
When completing your Utah 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:
Equal shares (default for multiple beneficiaries)
Unequal shares (must specify percentages)
Tenants in common (each owns specific share)
Joint tenancy with right of survivorship (if specified)
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
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
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!
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
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
Salt Lake County (Salt Lake City):
Largest population in Utah
State capital
Most active real estate market
TOD deeds commonly used
Professional estate planning community
Utah County (Provo/Orem):
Second largest county
Brigham Young University
Rapidly growing
TOD deeds well-established
Family-oriented communities
Davis County (Farmington/Layton/Bountiful):
Northern suburbs of Salt Lake
Growing communities
Good schools
TOD deeds popular
Family properties
Weber County (Ogden):
Historic city
Mountain access
More affordable than Salt Lake
TOD deeds recognized
Growing use
Cache County (Logan):
Utah State University
Northern Utah
Agricultural heritage
TOD deeds understood
College town
Washington County (St. George):
Fastest growing area in Utah
Retirement destination
Warm climate
High real estate activity
TOD deeds very popular
Popular Areas:
St. George
Hurricane
Ivins
Santa Clara
Washington
Property Types:
Retirement homes
Vacation properties
Golf course communities
Second homes
Investment properties
Why TOD Deeds Are Common:
Many retirees
Out-of-state buyers
Estate planning priority
Avoid probate important
Simple succession desired
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
No state transfer tax
Simplicity:
Easy to understand
Simple to complete
Well-established in Utah since 1998
Clear process
Beneficiaries can handle with minimal help
Flexibility:
Name multiple beneficiaries
Include alternate beneficiaries
Specify distribution method
Change anytime
Complete control
Medicaid Planning:
Generally doesn't affect eligibility
Not considered a gift
Retain ownership
Consult Medicaid planner for your situation
Summit County (Park City/Coalville):
Premier ski resort area
Park City Mountain Resort
Deer Valley Resort
High property values
TOD deeds for vacation homes
Wasatch County (Heber City/Midway):
Wasatch Mountain State Park
Growing resort area
Mountain properties
TOD deeds popular
Second homes
Mountain Property Planning:
Ski condos and chalets
Vacation homes
Investment properties
Family cabins
Rental properties
TOD Deed Benefits:
Avoid probate for vacation homes
Keep property in family
Simple succession
Maintain control to sell
Flexibility important
Iron County (Cedar City):
Southern Utah University
Gateway to national parks
Growing community
TOD deeds recognized
Affordable properties
Kane County (Kanab):
"Little Hollywood"
National parks access
Tourist destination
Vacation properties
TOD deeds gaining use
Garfield County (Panguitch):
Bryce Canyon area
Rural character
Tourism economy
Vacation homes
Simple succession planning
Grand County (Moab):
World-famous recreation
Arches National Park
Canyonlands National Park
Mountain biking mecca
Growing vacation rental market
Property Types:
Vacation homes
Investment properties
Rental properties
Second homes
Commercial properties
TOD Deed Popularity:
Out-of-state owners
Investment properties
Estate planning important
Avoid probate crucial
Simple succession valued
Uintah County (Vernal):
Dinosaur National Monument
Oil and gas region
Affordable properties
TOD deeds recognized
Family properties
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.
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!
Historical Significance:
Utah was a pioneer state in adopting TOD deed legislation:
Timeline:
1998: Utah enacted TOD deed statute
One of first five states to authorize
Over 25 years of established use
Thousands of successful transfers
Well-understood by title companies
Why This Matters:
Proven track record
County Recorders experienced
Title companies familiar
Legal precedents established
Widely accepted
Utah's Leadership:
Model for other states
Refined through practice
Clear procedures
Reliable process
Confidence in use
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 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
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 Utah estate planning forms? We also offer:
Utah Quitclaim Deeds – For immediate transfers
Utah Warranty Deeds – For property sales
Utah Power of Attorney Forms – For disability planning
Utah Advance Healthcare Directive Forms – For healthcare decisions
Download your Utah 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 Utah real estate to your beneficiaries automatically—avoiding probate and saving your loved ones time and money!
Whether you're planning for:
Salt Lake County and Wasatch Front properties
St. George and Southern Utah homes
Park City and Summit County ski properties
Utah County properties (Provo, Orem)
Moab and Eastern Utah vacation homes
Cache Valley properties (Logan)
Central Utah properties
Mountain and vacation properties
Primary residences throughout Utah
Investment and rental properties
Our Utah 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 in the Beehive State.
Download Your Utah Transfer on Death Deed Template Now - $18
While we offer our comprehensive Utah transfer on death deed template for $18, we provide this valuable information about Utah TOD deeds for free to help you understand this important estate planning tool:
Free Resources Included on This Page:
How Utah 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
Utah's pioneer status with TOD deeds
Revocation information
What You Get for $18:
Professionally drafted Utah TOD deed form
Multiple formats (Word, PDF, Google Docs)
Complete step-by-step instructions
Recording guidelines for all Utah 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