Enacted in 1989, the Missouri Nonprobate Transfers Law (Sections 461.003 et seq, Revised Statutes of Missouri (2012)) allows those who own real property in Missouri the option of conveying real property after death, but without the need for probate distribution.

One distinctive feature of this useful estate planning tool is its flexibility. The grantor retains absolute ownership of and control over the Missouri real estate, with the freedom to sell, rent, mortgage, or otherwise use the land at will with no penalty for waste or obligation to inform the named beneficiary. He or she may also change details about beneficiaries or even revoke the beneficiary deed outright by executing and recording a new document containing the updated information. For the beneficiary deed and any related changes or revocations to be valid, however, the deed must be recorded during the grantor's lifetime.

This flexibility is possible because the transfer of ownership is incomplete. There is no statutory obligation to notify grantees of their beneficiary status, so there is typically no consideration (something of value, usually money) paid for the potential future interest in the real estate. The transfer of ownership rights is completed when the grantor dies and the beneficiary records the appropriate documentation.

Overall, Missouri beneficiary deeds are a simple and effective estate planning tool for individuals who want to pass on real property rights outside of the probate process. Even so, it is essential to review how executing a beneficiary deed might impact taxes, as well as eligibility for local, state, and federal benefits and asset-based programs.

(Missouri BD Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example)

How to Use This Form

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

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Common Uses for Beneficiary Deed

Simplify property transfer for your family after your passing
Name a trust as the beneficiary of your real property
Designate a spouse as the beneficiary of your property
Revoke a prior transfer on death or beneficiary designation
Provide for a loved one without giving up current ownership

Compare other Missouri deed forms and documents

Quitclaim Deed Gift Deed Warranty Deed Special Warranty Deed Grant Deed Easement Deed Termination of Easement Correction Deed General Power of Attorney-Durable Specific Power of Attorney for the Purchase of Property Specific Power of Attorney for the Sale of Property Revocation of Beneficiary Deed Affidavit as to Death of Grantor Affidavit of Deceased Joint Tenant Trustee Deed Trustee Deed Under Sale (Foreclosure) Personal Representative Deed Personal Representative Deed of Sale Personal Representative Deed of Distribution Contractor Change Order Consent of Owner Notice of Intent Notice of Rights Claim of Mechanic's Lien Partial Mechanic's Lien Waiver on Progress Payment Mechanic's Lien Waiver on Final Payment Release of Mechanic's Lien Lis Pendens Notice Release of Lis Pendens Notice Deed of Trust and Promissory Note Assignment of Deed of Trust Full Deed of Release for Deed of Trust Contract for Deed Affidavit of Equitable Interest Release of Affidavit of Equitable Interest Mineral Deed Mineral Deed with Quitclaim Covenants Disclaimer of Interest

Important: County or Independent City-Specific Forms

Our beneficiary deed forms are specifically formatted for each county or independent city in Missouri.

After selecting your county or independent city, 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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