Allows an owner or owners of real property to execute a deed that names one or more beneficiaries who will obtain title to the property at the owner's death without the necessity of probate.

Rhode Island Real Property Transfer on Death Act

This bill would give Rhode Island property owners a new, simpler way to pass real estate — like a home or land — directly to a chosen person or persons when they die. Under the bill, an owner could sign a special legal document called a "transfer on death deed" that names one or more beneficiaries. When the owner dies, the property would automatically go to those beneficiaries without having to go through the probate process.

Probate is the legal process courts use to settle a person's estate after they die, which can be time-consuming, costly, and sometimes stressful for grieving families. By allowing property to transfer outside of probate, this bill could save beneficiaries significant time and money. Importantly, the owner would keep full control of the property while they are alive — they can sell it, mortgage it, or cancel the deed at any time before their death.

This bill would affect Rhode Island homeowners and property owners of all kinds, as well as the family members or other individuals they might wish to leave property to. It would be particularly helpful for people who want a straightforward estate planning tool without necessarily needing to set up a trust or go through a lengthy legal process after their death. Similar laws already exist in the majority of U.S. states.

The bill was introduced in the Rhode Island House and referred to the House Judiciary Committee, but has been postponed and held for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward toward a vote.