08/19/2026
A transfer on death deed can be a helpful estate planning tool for homeowners—but it’s important to understand what it does (and does not) change.
With a properly prepared transfer on death deed, your home may pass directly to the beneficiary you name after your death, without going through probate. However, the deed does not automatically address homeowners insurance. If you are signing a Transfer on Death Deed (TODD), be sure to contact your homeowner's insurance upon signing it, to add the TODD beneficiaries as an "additional insured" on your policy.
If you are inheriting a home through a transfer on death deed, contact the insurance company promptly. The policy may need to be updated, and coverage should be reviewed to help avoid gaps during the transition.
Estate planning works best when all the pieces fit together—your deed, beneficiary designations, insurance, will, and trust plan.
If you have questions about how your home fits into your estate plan, I’m here to help.
