• Transfer property automatically to beneficiaries upon death
• Avoid probate
• Retain full control of the property during their lifetime (can sell, refinance, revoke)
• Remain eligible for Medicaid planning purposes (in most cases)

1. The property is located in Florida
2. You are the sole legal owner (or co-owners agree to transfer interest)
3. You want to name one or more remainder beneficiaries (grantees)
4. You want to retain a life estate with enhanced rights
5. You are not subject to a court restriction or lien that prevents transfer

• Full legal name(s)
• Mailing address
• Marital status
• Signature(s) must match how the name appears on the current deed

• Full legal name(s) of beneficiary or beneficiaries
• Relationship to grantor (optional, but helpful)
• Address (recommended for recording and notice purposes)

• Street address of the property
• Legal description from current deed (exact wording required)
• Parcel or tax ID number (optional but helpful)

• Florida Lady Bird Deed document – properly drafted and notarized
• Current deed or title for reference (to ensure accuracy of legal description)
• Self-addressed stamped envelope (if mailing recording documents)

Prepared deed should state that the grantor retains a life estate with full powers, including the right to sell, mortgage, or change beneficiaries.

• Deed must be signed by the grantor(s)
• Must be notarized
• Must have two witnesses (in addition to the notary)
• All signatures must be original (wet ink), no electronic signatures for recording

1. Take or mail the signed deed to the Clerk of Court/County Recorder in the county where the property is located
2. Pay the recording fee (typically $10–$20 for first page, plus $8–$10 per additional page)
3. Ask for or request a certified copy of the recorded deed

• The Lady Bird Deed is revocable by the grantor during life
• It does not affect homestead rights or property taxes
• It avoids probate but still qualifies as a completed transfer upon death
• It may impact Medicaid estate recovery planning – legal advice recommended
• It is not affected by the grantee’s creditors during the grantor’s life