Renouncing Inherited Property in New York

A beneficiary of an interest in property in New York can disclaim a bequeathed asset or power (New York State Code, Estates, Powers, and Trusts, Article 2, 1.11). Such a renunciation, which must be in writing and signed by the beneficiary or a legally authorized representative, allows that beneficiary to disclaim his or her interest in the property, either in full or partially (1.11 (c) (1), 1.11 (f)).

The renunciation is only valid if the beneficiary has not indicated acceptance of the property, for example, through transfer or encumbrance, acceptance of any payment, or other actions (1.11 (g)). It must be acknowledged by a notary and accompanied by an affidavit stating that the beneficiary is not receiving monetary consideration in exchange for the renunciation (1.11 (c) (2)).

The statutes provide a nine-month window, to be extended at the discretion of the court, during which the beneficiary must file the renunciation document with the surrogate court in the county where the will or estate is being administered. The document must also be delivered to the fiduciary or administrator of the estate, or to the person holding legal title to the property (1.11 (c) (2)).

A renunciation is irrevocable (1.11 (h)) and has the same effect as though the beneficiary "had predeceased the creator or the decedent" (1.11 (e)). So, consult an attorney when in doubt about the drawbacks and benefits of renouncing inherited property.

(New York DOI Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example)

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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These are different form types, not alternate versions of the current form.

Transfer on Death Deed

Name a beneficiary to receive property after the owner's death.

Transfer on Death Revocation

Revoke a previously recorded transfer on death deed, canceling the beneficiary designation.

Important: County-Specific Forms

Our disclaimer of interest forms are specifically formatted for each county in New York.

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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