Can You Sue an Estate After Probate? Typically, no. Texas law states that claimants must make their claims on an estate before probate closes. However, many claimants can still seek payment from beneficiaries who received assets from the estate during distribution.
A Transfer on Death Deed will not protect the property from creditor claims. The Transfer on Death Deed beneficiary takes subject to all mortgages, liens, and claims.
The potential downside is the beneficiaries and estate executor might not be aware of all the TODs. The accounts could become lost property after the owner passes away if the beneficiaries don't claim them. To avoid that, an owner should keep a record of all TOD accounts.
A transfer on death deed (TODD) is a legal document that allows a person to transfer ownership of their property after they die. By using a TODD, a person can transfer the property directly without going through probate. This procedure can be used for real property like land, houses, buildings, etc.
A Transfer on Death Deed in Texas lets real estate owners (the grantor) designate a beneficiary to receive their property directly after their death. This method sidesteps probate, making the transfer of a deed smoother and often quicker for the beneficiary.
While less common than challenging traditional wills, TOD Deeds can be contested in Texas. Because each scenario is different, working with a seasoned estate planning attorney can help determine the best course of action for you.
In Texas, property owners have the right to revoke a TODD at any time without the beneficiary's consent. This can be done by either executing and recording a new TODD or filing an instrument of revocation.
For example, if you and your spouse own the property in equal shares and you file a transfer on death deed giving the property to someone, like a child or a friend, that person only gets your share of the property. Your spouse still has her share. 3. A transfer on death deed trumps a will.