California Interspousal Deed Form

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California Interspousal Deed template illustration

An interspousal deed form is a formal contract, also known as the deed of gift, according to which property rights are transferred between married people. Married couples use a California interspousal deed form to move a home or other real property from one spouse's name into the other's, or into both names.

What an Interspousal Deed Does

In general, this agreement provides a limited guarantee of ownership. By signing this covenant, the spouse transferring private property guarantees that the transition is lawful and there are no legal issues concerning the property or its title. However, the so-called grantor does not provide any warranties regarding the past of the subject property. Therefore, anything that went on in the premises before the grantor purchased it is beyond their expertise.

Basically, the transaction held with the help of an Interspousal Transfer Grant Deed form is barely a change of ownership. As long as the spouses are married and share the same name (but not necessarily), they can transfer the name to the property title certificate. Usually, such transfers do not lead to reassessment and are not subject to taxation. Learn more about this in our guide: FormsPal deed forms.

Interspousal Deed Laws and Requirements in California

Like other official documents, the California Interspousal Transfer Deed Agreement should comply with the local norms and regulations. Transmitting property from one spouse to another is a long process. Sometimes unexpected factors can make it even more extended, such as unknown liens, forged documents, and lack of heirs, among others.

By the way, title insurance in the real property transferring process can supplement the guarantee. This document safeguards the issuer from any risks during the transaction. However, before you fill it out, the relevant insurance company searches through the land records and other resources to ensure that the property title is in order. Thus, you can avoid unforeseen circumstances and critical situations.

Laws

All issues concerning property transferring are regulated by the California Civil Code and the Federal Revenue Taxation Code (Section 63). This statute governs the obligations of both parties to the transfer deal and sets forth specific deadlines and legal procedures. Each chapter contains comprehensive information about real property, tax payments and fees, and the receiving and transfer process.

Please note that the California Interspousal Transfer Grant Deed is excluded from reappraisal under California Constitution (Article 13A, Section 1) as written at the top of the form.

Signing Requirements

This document must comply with all California state laws. Therefore, when filling out the covenant, ensure you sign it and let a notary public put an official state seal. The Grantor should sign the form only in the presence of a licensed notary since the document requires notarization.

Before you meet the notary

  • Bring the current deed, so you can copy the legal description from it.
  • Check that both names match your IDs.
  • Keep a signed copy with your property papers.

Recording Requirements

After notarization, it is necessary to send the form for review to the relevant authorities. California residents should file the papers with the local Register of Deeds.

At the same time, do not forget to send the documents to the respective local department dealing with property issues.

Wording Requirements

This form requires a legal description of the subject premises, the correct font, size, and format. When filling out grant deed documents, you must use the corresponding legal language. Do not include contradictory phrases, ambiguous words, and so lies or unaudited factual information. Otherwise, you will be liable for perjury.

Fees

When transferring grant property between married people, higher-level structures request additional recording fees (usually up to $75). Ensure you check the up-to-date amount, pay it time, and submit the receipt (if filing in hard copy) along with the application form.

How To Fill Out and File an Interspousal Deed in California

Keep your current deed and your IDs close while you fill in the template. When completing this form, provide reliable information to avoid misunderstandings and possible errors. If you submit incorrect documents, the authorities have the right not to decline them.

  1. Agree to the Terms and Conditions. Read the transfer conditions, then check the boxes to show your consent.
  2. Provide Basic Information. Next, enter the general details about the property transaction, such as:
    • The Grantor’s and Recipient’s full legal names
    • Physical address
    • County and city where the property is located
    Check the information you entered for accuracy.
  3. Indicate the Key Issues. Enter the amount of supplements and city taxes. Then calculate and write the total value of the transferred real property, and add any other relevant property description on the blank lines.
  4. Sign the Form. Write the current calendar date and add your signature to confirm that you want to transfer the property. With your signature, you confirm that all the submitted information is reliable and authentic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an interspousal deed used for?

An interspousal transfer deed moves real estate from one spouse's name into the other's, or into both names. Couples commonly use it after a marriage to add a spouse as an owner, or when they sort out who keeps the home during a divorce. It can work either way, from one spouse to the other and vice versa.

What should I have ready before I fill in the form?

Gather these items first, so the form takes only a few minutes:

  • The current deed to the property
  • Both full names, written the way they appear on your IDs
  • The county and city where the property is located
  • The value of the property

Where can I find the legal description of the property?

Check the current deed to the property first. Copy the legal description exactly as written, including every number and abbreviation, so the new deed describes the same land.

Should I keep a copy of the signed interspousal transfer deed?

Yes. Keep a signed copy with your other real estate papers, such as your mortgage documents. Making a copy now helps you answer questions about the transfer later.

General information, not legal or tax advice.

Mara Erlach
Mara Erlach
Writer & Attorney
Mara has been practicing estate planning and trust law in California since 2003, taking pride in helping clients of all backgrounds and asset profiles form a complete and customized estate plan. Her specialties are: estate planning, wills and trusts, trust and probate administration.