Transfer on Death (TOD) Deeds – Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Quick Answer
Looking for information about Transfer on Death (TOD) Deeds in Tippecanoe County? A Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed allows Indiana property owners to name one or more beneficiaries who will receive real estate after the owner’s death without going through probate. The deed must be properly prepared, signed, notarized, and recorded with the Tippecanoe County Recorder’s Office before the owner’s death in order to be effective.
What Is a Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed?
A Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed is a legal document that allows real estate to transfer directly to a named beneficiary after the property owner’s death.
Until the owner’s death:
- The owner keeps full ownership of the property.
- The owner may sell or refinance the property.
- The owner may change or revoke the TOD Deed.
- The beneficiary has no ownership interest in the property.
The transfer only becomes effective after the owner’s death and any applicable legal requirements have been met.
Benefits of a TOD Deed
For many homeowners, a Transfer on Death Deed can simplify the transfer of real estate.
Potential benefits include:
- Helps avoid probate for the property
- Allows you to keep full ownership during your lifetime
- Can be revoked or changed while you’re living
- Lets you name one or more beneficiaries
- May simplify transferring real estate to heirs
Whether a TOD Deed is appropriate depends on your individual circumstances.
How Do You Create a TOD Deed?
To be legally effective, a TOD Deed generally must:
- Be properly prepared
- Include the required legal description
- Identify the property owner(s)
- Identify the beneficiary or beneficiaries
- Be signed by the property owner
- Be notarized
- Be recorded with the Tippecanoe County Recorder’s Office before the owner’s death
The Recorder’s Office records properly completed documents but cannot prepare legal documents or provide legal advice.
Can a TOD Deed Be Changed?
Yes.
As long as the property owner is living and legally able to do so, a Transfer on Death Deed may generally be:
- Revoked
- Replaced
- Amended by recording a new document when permitted under Indiana law
If your wishes change after creating a TOD Deed, you should ensure the appropriate legal documents are properly prepared and recorded.
Should You Use a TOD Deed?
A Transfer on Death Deed may be a good estate planning tool for some property owners, but it is not the right choice for everyone.
Situations that may require additional legal guidance include:
- Multiple property owners
- Blended families
- Trusts
- Business ownership
- Minor beneficiaries
- Complex estate planning needs
If you’re unsure whether a TOD Deed is appropriate, consider speaking with an attorney who practices estate planning or real estate law.
Office Hours & Contact Information
The Tippecanoe County Recorder’s Office can assist with:
- Recording TOD Deeds
- Recording requirements
- Recording fees
- Certified copies
- Property records
- General recording questions
Tippecanoe County Recorder
https://www.tippecanoe.in.gov/343/Recorder
Phone: (765) 423-9352
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Office Location:
20 N. 3rd Street, 2nd Floor
Lafayette, IN 47901
Local Tips
Record the Deed Promptly
A TOD Deed must be recorded before the property owner’s death. Simply signing the document without recording it may prevent it from accomplishing its intended purpose.
Review Your Estate Plan
Major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or the death of a beneficiary may be good times to review whether your TOD Deed still reflects your wishes.
The Recorder Cannot Give Legal Advice
The Recorder’s Office can record qualifying documents but cannot advise you about whether a TOD Deed is the best option for your situation or prepare the legal paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed?
A TOD Deed allows Indiana property owners to name beneficiaries who will receive real estate after the owner’s death without the property automatically going through probate.
Do I lose ownership of my property?
No. You remain the owner of the property during your lifetime and continue to have full control over it.
Can I change my beneficiary later?
Generally, yes. Indiana law allows property owners to revoke or replace a TOD Deed while they are living, provided the legal requirements are met.
Does the Recorder prepare TOD Deeds?
No. The Recorder’s Office records properly completed documents but does not prepare legal forms or provide legal advice.
Is a TOD Deed right for everyone?
Not necessarily. Every estate is different, and some situations may benefit from legal advice before deciding whether to use a TOD Deed.
Related Pages
- Recorder’s Office
- Property Records
- Property Tax Exemptions
- Homestead Deduction
- Marriage Licenses
- Wills & Estate Planning (Future Page)
Official Resources
📄 Tippecanoe County Recorder
Official information about recording documents, recording requirements, fees, and office hours.
https://www.tippecanoe.in.gov/343/Recorder
⚖️ Indiana General Assembly – Transfer on Death Property Act
Indiana statutes governing Transfer on Death Deeds.
🏠 Indiana Judicial Branch
Information about probate, estate administration, and Indiana courts.
Last Updated: July 2026
Summary
A Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed can be a valuable estate planning tool for Indiana property owners who want to transfer real estate directly to beneficiaries after death while avoiding probate for that property. Because the owner keeps full control of the property during their lifetime, a TOD Deed offers flexibility while simplifying future property transfers. However, it is important that the deed is properly prepared, signed, notarized, and recorded with the Tippecanoe County Recorder’s Office before the owner’s death. If you have a complex estate or questions about whether a TOD Deed is appropriate for your circumstances, consulting an attorney can help ensure your wishes are carried out correctly.