Quitclaim Deeds and Transferring Property in Arizona
How to sign and record a quitclaim or other deed in Arizona, and whether you can use a transfer-on-death deed to avoid probate.
Short answer: A deed must be in writing, signed by the grantor (or an agent authorized in writing), delivered, and acknowledged before a notary or other authorized officer. A.R.S. §§ 33-401, 11-1133, 11-1134
| Signing and recording a deed | A deed must be in writing, signed by the grantor (or an agent authorized in writing), delivered, and acknowledged before a notary or other authorized officer. Deeds are recorded with the county recorder of the county where the property is located. Most deeds that transfer title must include an Affidavit of Property Value on the Department of Revenue form, with exemptions such as gift deeds, quitclaim deeds for no money and court-ordered transfers. Re-verified 2026-10-27. |
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| Transfer-on-death deed | Yes. Arizona allows a beneficiary deed that names who receives the property when the owner dies. It must expressly say it takes effect on the owner's death, and it is valid only if signed and recorded with the county recorder where the property is located before the owner's death. It can be revoked by a recorded revocation before death. Joint owners with survivorship rights can use one that takes effect at the last owner's death. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: A.R.S. § 33-405 |
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FAQ
What does a quitclaim deed need to be valid in Arizona?
A deed must be in writing, signed by the grantor (or an agent authorized in writing), delivered, and acknowledged before a notary or other authorized officer. Deeds are recorded with the county recorder of the county where the property is located. Most deeds that transfer title must include an Affidavit of Property Value on the Department of Revenue form, with exemptions such as gift deeds, quitclaim deeds for no money and court-ordered transfers.
Does Arizona allow transfer-on-death deeds?
Yes. Arizona allows a beneficiary deed that names who receives the property when the owner dies. It must expressly say it takes effect on the owner's death, and it is valid only if signed and recorded with the county recorder where the property is located before the owner's death. It can be revoked by a recorded revocation before death. Joint owners with survivorship rights can use one that takes effect at the last owner's death.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.