Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deed Form – Downloadable Template 

Avoid Probate and Transfer Your Wisconsin Property Automatically Upon Death

Looking for a Wisconsin transfer on death deed form? Our downloadable Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deed Template Now - $18

What is a Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deed?

A Wisconsin transfer on death deed (also called a Wisconsin TOD deed or Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin TOD deed only takes effect upon your death, allowing you to maintain complete ownership and control during your lifetime.

Why Choose Our Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deed Template?

✔ Instant Download – Get immediate access to your Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin Statutes § 705.15 requirements
✔ Affordable – Just $18 for complete access to all formats

What's Included in Your Purchase:

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

• Editable Wisconsin TOD deed template you can customize

• Fillable Wisconsin TOD deed PDF for easy completion

• Step-by-step instructions for proper execution

• Recording guidelines for Wisconsin counties

• Revocation instructions (how to change or cancel)

• Access to our organized course platform with all templates

Common Uses for Wisconsin 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

Lake Property Transfer – Pass Wisconsin lake cabins to the next generation

Benefits of Using Our Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin recording requirements

How Does a Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deed Work?

1. Complete the Form – Fill out our Wisconsin 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 Register of Deeds office 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

Wisconsin 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 Register of Deeds 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 Wisconsin's formatting and margin requirements (1" margins)

• Can be revoked or changed anytime before death

• Must include specific statutory language as required by Wisconsin law

Wisconsin 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

• 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

Who Should Use a Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deed?

Our Wisconsin 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

• Lake cabin owners planning succession

• Farm owners with simple succession plans

• Individuals preserving Medical Assistance eligibility

Download Your Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deed Template Today

Get instant access to your Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
A: A Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
A: Yes, Wisconsin authorized TOD deeds in 2006 under Wisconsin Statutes § 705.15. They are a fully legal and well-established estate planning tool in Wisconsin.

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

Q: How much does it cost to file a Wisconsin TOD deed?
A: Recording fees vary by county, typically ranging from $30-$50. There are no transfer fees when recording TOD deeds during your lifetime in Wisconsin.

Q: Does a Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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.

Multiple Format Options

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

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

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

Wisconsin-Specific Considerations

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 ($30-$50 typically)

Transfer Fee at Death:

• Wisconsin'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

💡 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 Wisconsin Counties

Our Wisconsin transfer on death deed form is valid in all 72 Wisconsin counties, including:

Southeast Wisconsin:

• Milwaukee County (Milwaukee)

• Waukesha County (Waukesha)

• Racine County (Racine)

• Kenosha County (Kenosha)

• Ozaukee County (Port Washington)

• Washington County (West Bend)

• Walworth County (Elkhorn)

Madison Area:

• Dane County (Madison)

• Columbia County (Portage)

• Dodge County (Juneau)

• Jefferson County (Jefferson)

• Rock County (Janesville)

Fox Valley:

• Outagamie County (Appleton)

• Winnebago County (Oshkosh)

• Calumet County (Chilton)

• Brown County (Green Bay)

• Fond du Lac County (Fond du Lac)

Lake Country:

• Vilas County (Eagle River)

• Oneida County (Rhinelander)

• Langlade County (Antigo)

• Forest County (Crandon)

Central Wisconsin:

• Marathon County (Wausau)

• Portage County (Stevens Point)

• Wood County (Wisconsin Rapids)

• Clark County (Neillsville)

North/Northeast:

• Sheboygan County (Sheboygan)

• Manitowoc County (Manitowoc)

• Door County (Sturgeon Bay)

• Kewaunee County (Kewaunee)

Northwest:

• Eau Claire County (Eau Claire)

• Chippewa County (Chippewa Falls)

• Barron County (Barron)

• Dunn County (Menomonie)

And all other Wisconsin counties

Step-by-Step Process Included

Our comprehensive instructions guide you through:

1. Understanding how Wisconsin TOD deeds work

2. Gathering required property information

3. Obtaining the legal description and parcel identification number (PIN)

4. Choosing your beneficiaries (primary and alternate)

5. Completing the transfer on death deed form

6. Understanding Wisconsin property ownership types

7. Understanding Wisconsin's marital property law

8. Properly executing the document

9. Understanding notarization requirements

10. Filing with your Register of Deeds

11. Understanding recording fees

12. How to revoke or change your TOD deed

13. What happens at your death

14. How beneficiaries claim the property

15. Transfer fee obligations at death

Common Wisconsin 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

Lake Property Transfer

• Pass Wisconsin lake 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

What Makes Our Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deed Template Different?

✓ Wisconsin-Specific – Complies with all Wisconsin Statutes § 705.15 requirements
✓ Proper Formatting – Meets Wisconsin's strict recording standards (1" margins)
✓ Up-to-Date – Reflects current Wisconsin law (effective since 2006)
✓ Professionally Drafted – Created by legal document preparation experts
✓ Easy to Customize – Clear blanks for your specific information
✓ Multiple Beneficiaries – Supports primary and alternate beneficiaries
✓ Marital Property Guidance – Addresses Wisconsin's marital property law
✓ 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

Wisconsin Recording Requirements

To properly record your Wisconsin 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 $30-$50)

4. Proper formatting with required margins (1" on all sides)

5. Legal description and parcel identification number (PIN)

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 (PIN) – Required in Wisconsin
❌ Wrong margins – Wisconsin requires 1" margins on all sides
❌ Improper notarization – Must be signed in front of notary
❌ Missing notarization – Required for recording
❌ Using wrong Register of Deeds office – Must record in county where property located
❌ Not considering marital property law – Important if married
❌ 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 Wisconsin transfer on death deed template includes detailed instructions to help you avoid these common pitfalls.

Understanding Wisconsin's Marital Property Law

Wisconsin is one of only a few marital property states:

Key Features:

• Property acquired during marriage is marital property

• Each spouse owns an undivided one-half interest

• Similar to community property states

• Special rules for transfers

• Both spouses may need to consent in some situations

Marital Property Agreement:

• Spouses can modify marital property classification

• Written agreement required

• Affects ownership rights

• Important for estate planning

Non-Marital Property:

• Property owned before marriage

• Gifts or inheritance to one spouse

• Property classified as individual by agreement

• Separate ownership rules

Impact on TOD Deeds:

• Both spouses should sign if property is marital property

• One spouse can execute TOD deed for their interest

• Important to identify property type

• Affects estate planning

This is an important consideration in Wisconsin property transfers!

Understanding Wisconsin Beneficiary Designations

When completing your Wisconsin 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)

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 TOD deed is in effect

3. Record Documents – Record death certificate and affidavit with Register of Deeds

4. File RETR and Pay Transfer Fee – Complete Real Estate Transfer Return and pay 0.3% transfer fee

5. No Court Required – No probate court involvement needed

6. 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!

Revoking or Changing Your Wisconsin 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.

Wisconsin 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

Milwaukee Metro Area

Milwaukee County (Milwaukee):

• Largest city in Wisconsin

• Urban and suburban properties

• TOD deeds commonly used

• Professional estate planning community

• Active real estate market

Waukesha County:

• Affluent western suburbs

• Top-rated schools

• High property values

• TOD deeds popular

• Strong estate planning support

Ozaukee County (Mequon/Cedarburg):

• North shore suburbs

• Affluent communities

• Lake Michigan access

• TOD deeds well-understood

• Good schools

Washington County (West Bend):

• Northwest suburbs

• More affordable than Ozaukee

• Growing communities

• Family-oriented

• TOD deeds gaining use

Racine County (Racine):

• Lake Michigan port city

• More affordable

• Lake access

• Historic downtown

• Growing TOD deed awareness

Kenosha County (Kenosha):

• Southeast corner

• Lake Michigan access

• Chicago commuters

• Affordable housing

• TOD deeds recognized

Madison and South Central Wisconsin

Dane County (Madison):

• State capital

• University of Wisconsin

• Strong economy

• High quality of life

• TOD deeds commonly used

• Professional estate planning

Rock County (Janesville/Beloit):

• South of Madison

• Manufacturing heritage

• Affordable housing

• Two cities

• TOD deeds gaining popularity

Jefferson County:

• Between Milwaukee and Madison

• Lake communities

• Affordable properties

• Growing population

• TOD deeds recognized

Columbia County (Portage):

• Between Milwaukee and Madison

• Wisconsin River

• Rural character

• Affordable housing

• Agricultural area

Wisconsin Lake Country

Lakes and Waterfront:

Wisconsin's 15,000+ lakes make TOD deeds particularly valuable:

Popular Lake Areas:

• Lake Geneva (Walworth County)

• Wisconsin Dells area

• Minocqua and Northwoods

• Door County waterfront

• Lac du Flambeau area

• Eagle River chain of lakes

• Lake Winnebago area

• Hayward lakes area

Lake Property Characteristics:

• Cabins and cottages

• Year-round and seasonal homes

• Multi-generational family properties

• High demand areas

• Important for succession planning

Common Transfers:

• Parents to children

• Family trusts

• Keeping cabins in the family

• TOD deeds frequently used

• Preserve family traditions

Fox Valley and Northeast Wisconsin

Brown County (Green Bay):

• Green Bay Packers

• Manufacturing center

• TOD deeds well-understood

• Growing economy

• Estate planning services

Outagamie County (Appleton):

• Fox Valley

• Paper industry heritage

• Lawrence University

• TOD deeds common

• Good quality of life

Winnebago County (Oshkosh/Neenah):

• Lake Winnebago

• UW-Oshkosh

• Manufacturing

• TOD deeds recognized

• Water recreation

Fond du Lac County (Fond du Lac):

• Lake Winnebago

• Manufacturing

• Affordable housing

• Water recreation

• Family communities

Sheboygan County (Sheboygan):

• Lake Michigan port

• Manufacturing

• Kohler Company

• German heritage

• Golf destination

Advantages of Wisconsin Transfer on Death Deeds

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

• Well-established in Wisconsin since 2006

• 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

Central Wisconsin

Marathon County (Wausau):

• Central Wisconsin hub

• TOD deeds well-understood

• Four seasons recreation

• Estate planning services

• Good quality of life

Portage County (Stevens Point):

• UW-Stevens Point

• Paper industry heritage

• College town

• TOD deeds common

• Central location

Wood County (Wisconsin Rapids):

• Paper industry

• Cranberry production

• Affordable housing

• TOD deeds recognized

• Family communities

Door County Peninsula

Door County (Sturgeon Bay):

• Popular vacation destination

• "Cape Cod of the Midwest"

• Cherry orchards

• Tourism economy

• Waterfront properties

• High property values

• Seasonal residents

• TOD deeds important for cabins

Property Types:

• Vacation homes

• Seasonal cottages

• Year-round residences

• Commercial tourism properties

• Waterfront parcels

Northwest Wisconsin

Eau Claire County (Eau Claire):

• UW-Eau Claire

• Regional center

• TOD deeds common

• Growing economy

• Quality of life

Chippewa County (Chippewa Falls):

• Leinenkugel brewery

• Manufacturing

• TOD deeds recognized

• Good schools

• Family communities

Dunn County (Menomonie):

• UW-Stout

• College town

• Red Cedar River

• TOD deeds understood

• Growing community

Northwoods and Far North

Vilas County (Eagle River):

• Northwoods vacation area

• Chain of lakes

• Tourism economy

• Seasonal properties

• TOD deeds critical for cabins

Oneida County (Rhinelander):

• Northwoods

• Lakes and forests

• Tourism

• Affordable properties

• Outdoor lifestyle

Douglas County (Superior):

• Lake Superior port

• Northwest corner

• UW-Superior

• TOD deeds recognized

• Water access

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 – 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.

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!

Wisconsin Agricultural Land

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

• Use value assessment

• 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

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

• 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

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 Wisconsin Estate Planning Forms Available

Need other Wisconsin estate planning forms? We also offer:

• Wisconsin Quitclaim Deeds – For immediate transfers

• Wisconsin Warranty Deeds – For property sales

• Wisconsin Power of Attorney Forms – For disability planning

• Wisconsin Healthcare Directive Forms – For healthcare decisions

Ready to Avoid Probate for Your Wisconsin Property?

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

Get Instant Access - $18

Perfect for All Wisconsin Property Types

Whether you're planning for:

• Milwaukee metro area properties (Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee)

• Madison and Dane County homes

• Fox Valley properties (Appleton, Green Bay, Oshkosh)

• Lake properties and cabins throughout Wisconsin

• Door County waterfront homes

• Northwoods vacation properties (Vilas, Oneida counties)

• Central Wisconsin properties (Marathon, Portage, Wood)

• Northwest Wisconsin homes (Eau Claire, Chippewa, Dunn)

• Agricultural and farm properties

• Primary residences throughout Wisconsin

Our Wisconsin 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 America's Dairyland.

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

Free Wisconsin TOD Deed Information

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

Free Resources Included on This Page:

• How Wisconsin TOD deeds work

• Benefits and limitations

• When to use (and not use) TOD deeds

• Comparison with other estate planning options

• Requirements and recording process

• Marital property law considerations

• How beneficiaries claim property

• Transfer fee obligations

• Revocation information

What You Get for $18:

• Professionally drafted Wisconsin TOD deed form

• Multiple formats (Word, PDF, Google Docs)

• Complete step-by-step instructions

• Recording guidelines for all Wisconsin counties

• Marital property 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