Virginia Transfer on Death Beneficiary Affidavit

On July 1, 2013, Virginia enacted the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act, codified at VA Code 64.2-621 et seq. (2012).

While the statutes contain suggested forms for the actual transfer on death deeds and associated revocations, the specifics for completing the transfer after the owner dies are less clear. In many cases, non-probate transfers of real property happen "as a function of law." In theory, this means there is no need for the beneficiary to act -- the named owner of the property automatically changes. In practice, however, it benefits the interests of all parties involved to formalize the updated status as soon as reasonably possible, especially since the beneficiary has the right to disclaim the conveyed interest.

One efficient method for stating the beneficiary's intent to accept the real estate is to execute and record an affidavit, which is a document containing statements made under oath. The affidavit should, at minimum, include:

1. The parties named in the transfer on death deed;

2. Residency and death information about the deceased owner;

3. Recording details for the transfer on death deed;

4. A description of and property ID for the real property being transferred;

5. Official copies of any necessary death certificates; and

6. Anything else required by the local agency responsible for recording and maintaining land records. In Virginia, this is typically the office of the clerk of the circuit court.

By recording such an affidavit, the beneficiary provides notice to the public of the change in ownership of the property. This is important because it helps to maintain a clear chain of title, or sequential record of owners. A clear chain of title will simplify future sales or mortgages of the property, since it indicates a reduced chance of unexpected claims against present or future owners.

Each situation is unique, so for specific advice, or to resolve more complex issues, contact a local real estate attorney.

Deeds.com Virginia Transfer on Death Beneficiary Affidavit Forms Have Been Updated as Recently as Tuesday March 12, 2019

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What others like you are saying:

Lisa G. said: Rec'd downloads for quitclaim deed process in Florida. Recorded with the clerk of courts today and the form was done perfectly--she had no changes to make. Well worth the money--thanks

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jack b. said: good form, reasonable fee

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Maurice M. said: It was very convenient to be able to purchase the forms that I needed and save an extra trip downtown. I really appreciated the instructions that came with the forms.

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Gretchen N. said: The filled out form could have been placed on the real form then deleted with current info. Form quite simplified but example & help good.

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Brooksye G. said: Very helpful. I live in Arkansas and needed information and documents for a Missouri transaction. I got everything I needed without any hassle.

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Katherine W. said: I was impressed by the completeness of the package of forms PLUS instructions. Particularly helpful is the filled in sample, which enables you to see what a correct, completed deed ought to look like.

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