Why would someone convey property using a lady bird deed?

Question:    Why would someone convey property using a lady bird deed?

Answer:    There are multiple advantages of using a Lady Bird deed.  First, the transfer of the real property occurs pursuant to the remainder provision in the deed and will not require probate to effectuate the transfer.  Second, the owner/life tenant can maintain the homestead tax exemption.  Third, it gives the owner/life tenant greater control than with a typical life-estate deed.  The remainderman can be changed and a future conveyance or mortgage would not require the remainderman’s cooperation or approval.  Fourth, there are various tax advantages.  The remainderman receives the property at the life tenant’s death with a ‘stepped up basis’ for federal income tax purposes.  The Florida Department of Revenue does not levy documentary stamp taxes against Lady Bird deed transfers.  Finally, a Lady Bird deed can be useful in planning for Medicaid eligibility for an unmarried applicant because the creation of the deed is not considered to be a transfer of assets by the state.  Contact Board Certified Elder Lawyer Babette B. Bach, Esq. to find out if a Lady Bird deed would be appropriate for transferring interests in real property you own.