The Washington Executor's Deed is a legal document used to transfer property from a deceased person to individuals designated as joint tenants with the right of survivorship. This deed ensures that the property automatically passes to the surviving joint tenant(s) upon the death of one tenant, while also outlining the specifics of the property being transferred.
To properly complete the Washington Executor's Deed, follow these steps:
The Washington Executor's Deed should be used by executors of an estate who need to transfer real estate to individuals that are designated as joint tenants. This form is particularly beneficial for estate administrators looking to finalize the transfer of property as part of the probate process.
When using the Washington Executor's Deed, it's important to avoid the following common mistakes:
During the notarization process for the Washington Executor's Deed, you can expect the following:
Understanding the Washington Executor's Deed is crucial for effective estate management. Remember these key points:
This is true even if the decedent created a will and bequeathed their interest in the property to someone else. This is known as the right of survivorship.The decedent's portion of the property receives a step-up in basis as of the date of their passing.
Jointly owned propertyProperty owned as joint tenants does not form part of a deceased person's estate on death. But the value of the deceased person's share of jointly owned property is included when calculating the value of the estate for Inheritance Tax purposes.
To hold a real estate property in joint tenancy, you and the co-owners have to write the abbreviation for joint tenants with the right of survivorship, or JTWROS, on the official real estate deed or title. This creates a legally binding joint tenancy.
Property held in joint tenancy, tenancy by the entirety, or community property with right of survivorship automatically passes to the survivor when one of the original owners dies. Real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, and investments can all pass this way. No probate is necessary to transfer ownership of the property.
Joint Tenancy With Right of Survivorship Property owned in joint tenancy automatically passes, without probate, to the surviving owner(s) when one owner dies.
Unity of time. Unity of title. Unity of interest. Unity of possession.
Most jointly owned property is held as joint tenants but you should not assume this.As property held under a joint tenancy will automatically pass to the surviving joint owners it will not form part of the deceased's estate except for the purposes of calculating inheritance tax.
Joint Tenancy With Survivorship In this arrangement, tenants have an equal right to the account's assets. They are also afforded survivorship rights in the event of the death of another account holder. In simple terms, it means that when one partner or spouse dies, the other receives all of the money or property.
The General Rule. In the great majority of states, if you and the other owners call yourselves "joint tenants with the right of survivorship," or put the abbreviation "JT WROS" after your names on the title document, you create a joint tenancy. A car salesman or bank staffer may assure you that other words are enough.