If you own property in Washington State, you may have heard about a Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed — a simple way to pass your real estate directly to someone when you die, without going through probate. But what if you change your mind after setting it up? Do you need your beneficiary’s permission to make a change?

The short answer is no — you don’t.

Let’s break down how it works and what you should consider before relying on a TOD deed.

What Is a Transfer on Death Deed?

A Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed is a legal document that lets you name a beneficiary to inherit your property when you pass away. Think of it like a beneficiary designation for your house — similar to naming someone on a life insurance policy or bank account.

The big benefit is that your property transfers automatically to the beneficiary after your death, without going through probate. That can save time, money, and hassle for your loved ones.

You Can Change or Revoke a TOD Deed Anytime

Here’s the key thing to know: a Transfer on Death Deed is revocable. That means you can change it, replace it, or cancel it entirely without the beneficiary’s consent — and in most cases, without them even knowing.

If you decide you want to leave your property to someone else, you can:

• Revoke the existing TOD Deed; or

• Execute a new TOD Deed naming a different beneficiary.

Once you record the new deed with your county, the old one is effectively overridden. Your beneficiaries don’t need to approve the change, and they’ll only find out if you choose to tell them.

When a Trust Might Be a Better Option

If you find yourself changing your mind frequently about who should receive your property, a TOD deed might not be the most efficient long-term solution. In that case, consider setting up a revocable living trust.

By transferring your property into a trust:

• You only record the property transfer once.

• You can change your beneficiaries and distribution terms as often as you like within the trust document.

• It’s often more cost-effective and simpler over time than repeatedly filing new deeds.

Trusts also provide additional benefits, such as privacy and easier management of your assets if you become incapacitated.

Final Thoughts

In Washington State, you’re completely free to change or revoke a Transfer on Death Deed at any time — no beneficiary consent required. But if you anticipate making multiple changes or want a more flexible and comprehensive estate plan, a trust may be the smarter path.

If you’d like help deciding which option makes the most sense for your situation, visit cmslawfirm.com. We help Washington families create estate plans that are clear, secure, and built to last.