How to Add a Spouse to a Deed

Adding a spouse to a deed is a legal process that allows the spouse to become a co-owner of a property. This can be done for several reasons, such as when getting married or when one spouse wants to add the other to the deed for estate planning purposes. Here are the steps to add a spouse to a deed:

1. Determine the type of ownership: Before adding a spouse to a deed, you need to determine the type of ownership you want to create. The two most common types of ownership are joint tenancy and tenancy in common.

2. Obtain a new deed: To add a spouse to a deed, you will need to obtain a new deed that reflects the change in ownership. You can obtain a new deed from a title company or an attorney.

3. Fill out the new deed: The new deed will need to be filled out with the correct information, including the names of the owners and the type of ownership being created.

4. Sign the new deed: Both spouses will need to sign the new deed in front of a notary public or other authorized official.

5. Record the new deed: Once the new deed has been signed, it will need to be recorded with the county clerk's office or recorder of deeds in the county where the property is located. There may be fees associated with recording the new deed.

6. Update any mortgage or title insurance: If there is a mortgage on the property or title insurance in place, you will need to contact the lender or insurance company to inform them of the change in ownership.

Adding a spouse to a deed can be a straightforward process, but it's important to ensure that all the paperwork is filled out correctly and that the new deed is properly recorded to avoid any legal issues in the future. It's always recommended to seek the advice of a real estate attorney or title company to ensure that the process is done correctly.