Beneficiary deeds in Arkansas are governed by A.S.A. 18-12-608. This statute offers owners of Arkansas real property to designate one or more beneficiaries who may gain the interest that remains in the owner's name at the time of his/her death.

Even though beneficiary deeds, just like other deeds of conveyance, must be lawfully recorded after they are completed and executed (signed in front of a notary), they differ from standard deeds in some important ways. If they are not recorded during the owner's life, they have no effect. Beneficiary deeds do not transfer any present interest in the real estate, so there is no requirement for consideration.

Perhaps one of their most unique features is the fact that the owner may execute and record new beneficiary deeds that change the beneficiary, the terms of the transfer, or even revoke the whole thing. The owner may even sell the property to someone else, leaving no interest to convey at death. Again, like the beneficiary deeds, to be effective, any changes must be recorded while the owner is alive. This flexibility allows land owners to retain absolute control over and use of the property.

When the owner dies, the beneficiary gains the title to the real estate described in the beneficiary deed. Any mortgages, liens, or obligations attached to the land at the time of the owner's death become the beneficiary's responsibility. In addition, if the owner received benefits from state or federal agencies, they might file reimbursement claims against the estate or the beneficiary.

Ultimately, beneficiary deeds can be a useful part of an overall estate plan. Still, executing one may impact the owner's eligibility for asset-based programs. Carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks to this type of conveyance to ensure that it supports the owner's overall intentions. Because each situation is unique, consult an attorney with specific questions.

(Arkansas Beneficiary Deed Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example) For use in Arkansas only.

How to Use This Form

Select your county from the list above
Download the county-specific form
Fill in the required information
Have the document notarized if required
Record with your county recorder's office

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Common Uses for Beneficiary Deed

Name a trust as the beneficiary of your real property
Avoid probate costs and delays for your heirs
Designate a spouse as the beneficiary of your property
Simplify property transfer for your family after your passing
Transfer property automatically at death without probate
Update beneficiary designations after a life change

Compare other Arkansas deed forms and documents

Quitclaim Deed Gift Deed Warranty Deed Special Warranty Deed Grant Deed Scrivener's Error Affidavit Statutory Durable Power of Attorney Specific Power of Attorney for the Sale of Property Limited Power of Attorney for the purchase of Property Mortgage Secured by Promissory Note Satisfaction of Mortgage Satisfaction Affidavit Deed of Trust and Promissory Note Deed of Trust with Installment of Taxes and Insurance Satisfaction of Deed of Trust Assignment of Mortgage or Deed of Trust Substitute of Trustee for Deed of Trust Purchasers Agreement (Cash Terms) Purchaser's Agreement (with installment payments) Memorandum and Notice of Agreement Full Release of Memorandum and Notice of Agreement Easement Deed Termination, Cancellation of Easement / Right of Way Personal Representative Deed Beneficiary Deed Revocation Disclaimer of Interest Notice to Owner Notice of Intent to File Affidavit of Service Claim of Mechanics Lien Waiver of Mechanic Lien Release of Mechanic Lien Lis Pendens Lis Pendens Release Certificate of Trust Mineral Deed Mineral Deed with Quitclaim Covenants

Important: County-Specific Forms

Our beneficiary deed forms are specifically formatted for each county in Arkansas.

After selecting your county, you'll receive forms that meet all local recording requirements, ensuring your documents will be accepted without delays or rejection fees.

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