Quitclaim Deeds and Transferring Property in Connecticut
How to sign and record a quitclaim or other deed in Connecticut, 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 authorized agent), acknowledged (for example, before a notary), and signed by two witnesses. It must include the grantee's current mailing address. Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 47-5, 47-10, 12-494
| Signing and recording a deed | A deed must be in writing, signed by the grantor (or an authorized agent), acknowledged (for example, before a notary), and signed by two witnesses. It must include the grantee's current mailing address. Deeds are recorded on the land records of the town where the land is located (with the town clerk). A real estate conveyance tax applies when the price is $2,000 or more: a state tax of 0.75% (residential homes over $800,000 pay 1.25% on the part from $800,000 to $2.5 million and 2.25% above $2.5 million; most nonresidential property pays 1.25%) plus a municipal tax of generally 0.25%. Some towns may charge an additional municipal conveyance tax, and certain transfers are exempt; ask the town clerk. |
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| Transfer-on-death deed | Connecticut's statutes do not provide a transfer on death deed for real estate. Connecticut law allows transfer on death registration for securities and accounts. Common alternatives for real estate include joint ownership with right of survivorship and a living trust. Check for later legislation before relying on this. |
Free Connecticut quitclaim deed template — fill in and print
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FAQ
What does a quitclaim deed need to be valid in Connecticut?
A deed must be in writing, signed by the grantor (or an authorized agent), acknowledged (for example, before a notary), and signed by two witnesses. It must include the grantee's current mailing address. Deeds are recorded on the land records of the town where the land is located (with the town clerk). A real estate conveyance tax applies when the price is $2,000 or more: a state tax of 0.75% (residential homes over $800,000 pay 1.25% on the part from $800,000 to $2.5 million and 2.25% above $2.5 million; most nonresidential property pays 1.25%) plus a municipal tax of generally 0.25%.
Does Connecticut allow transfer-on-death deeds?
Connecticut's statutes do not provide a transfer on death deed for real estate. Connecticut law allows transfer on death registration for securities and accounts. Common alternatives for real estate include joint ownership with right of survivorship and a living trust.
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.