Palm Harbor Lady Bird Deeds Lawyer

A Smart Estate Planning Tool in Florida

A Lady Bird Deed, also known as an enhanced life estate deed, is a unique estate planning tool that allows property owners to maintain control over their real estate while ensuring a smooth transfer to beneficiaries upon their passing. At Miaoulis Law, we help individuals and families understand how Lady Bird Deeds can play a role in their comprehensive estate planning strategies. Contact us today to discuss your needs and goals with an experienced Palm Harbor Lady Bird deeds lawyer.

What Is a Lady Bird Deed?

A Lady Bird Deed is a special type of life estate deed that allows the property owner (settlor) to retain full control over their property during their lifetime. Unlike traditional life estate deeds, the settlor can sell, mortgage, or transfer the property without needing the consent of the remainder beneficiaries. Upon the settlor’s passing, the property automatically transfers to the designated beneficiaries without going through probate.

Benefits of a Lady Bird Deed

A Lady Bird Deed offers several advantages, making it a popular choice for estate planning in Florida:

  • Avoids Probate – Since the property automatically transfers to beneficiaries upon death, it does not go through the probate process, saving time and costs.
  • Maintains Control – The settlor retains full rights to sell, lease, or modify the property without beneficiary approval.
  • Medicaid Planning Benefits – A Lady Bird Deed can help individuals qualify for Medicaid benefits while ensuring the property passes to their heirs without Medicaid estate recovery claims.
  • Minimizes Gift Taxes – Because the transfer of property occurs upon death, it is not considered a gift during the grantor’s lifetime, avoiding gift tax implications.
  • Ensures a Smooth Transfer – Beneficiaries receive the property seamlessly without the need for court intervention or estate administration.

How Does a Lady Bird Deed Work?

  1. Creation of the Deed – The settlor executes a Lady Bird Deed, naming themselves as the life tenant and designating remainder beneficiaries who will receive the property upon their death.
  2. Retention of Control – The settlor can continue to live in, sell, refinance, or change beneficiaries of the property at any time.
  3. Automatic Transfer – Upon the settlor’s death, the property automatically transfers to the named beneficiaries without probate involvement.

Who Should Consider a Lady Bird Deed in Palm Harbor?

A Lady Bird Deed may be a great option for individuals who own real estate in Florida and want to avoid probate, wish to retain full control over their property while planning for the future, are concerned about Medicaid eligibility and estate recovery, or prefer a simple, cost-effective estate planning tool over a trust.

Lady Bird Deed vs. Traditional Life Estate Deed

A key advantage of a Lady Bird Deed over a traditional life estate deed is the ability to change beneficiaries or sell the property without their consent. With a standard life estate deed, the remainder beneficiaries have a vested interest in the property, meaning changes require their approval. This flexibility makes the Lady Bird Deed a preferred option for many Florida homeowners.

How Miaoulis Law Can Help

At Miaoulis Law, we understand the importance of effective estate planning. Our experienced team will help you determine whether a Lady Bird Deed is the right solution for your needs. We provide personalized legal advice tailored to your estate planning goals, preparation and execution of Lady Bird Deeds, guidance on Medicaid planning and asset protection, and assistance with updating or modifying existing deeds. Maria Miaoulis and our dedicated team take a family-oriented approach, ensuring that you receive the support and attention you deserve throughout the estate planning process.

Get Started with a Lady Bird Deed Today

If you’re considering a Lady Bird Deed or have questions about estate planning in Florida, Miaoulis Law is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your future and protecting your loved ones.