How to Set Up a Lady Bird Deed in Florida
Setting up a Florida Lady Bird Deed is straightforward when you work with an experienced attorney. Here is exactly what the process looks like from start to finish.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
A Lady Bird Deed works for most Florida homeowners who own residential property and want it to pass to a named beneficiary outside of probate. You must be the current owner of record, the property must be in Florida, and you must be able to identify at least one beneficiary.
Properties held in an LLC, properties with title disputes, or commercial properties may not qualify. Check your eligibility here.
Step 2: Place Your Order Online
Complete our online order form with your property details, current ownership information, and the name(s) of your intended beneficiaries. The process takes about 10 minutes. Our flat fee is $349 — no hidden costs.
Step 3: Attorney Drafts Your Deed
A licensed Florida attorney reviews your information and prepares a Lady Bird Deed tailored to your property and county recording requirements. This typically takes 5-7 business days. You will receive your completed deed by email for review.
Step 4: Sign Before a Notary
Florida law requires that deeds be signed in the presence of a notary public and two witnesses. You can use any notary in Florida — banks, UPS stores, and mobile notaries all work. The beneficiary does not need to sign.
Step 5: Record with the County Clerk
After signing, file your Lady Bird Deed with the Clerk of Court in the county where the property is located. Recording fees vary by county and are paid directly to the clerk. Many counties now accept e-recording for faster processing.
What Happens After Recording?
Once recorded, your Lady Bird Deed is legally effective. You retain full ownership and control of the property during your lifetime. You can sell it, refinance it, or revoke the deed at any time. At your passing, the property automatically transfers to your named beneficiary — no probate required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the whole process take?
From order to recorded deed, most clients complete the process in 2-3 weeks. Attorney preparation takes 5-7 business days, and recording typically takes 1-5 additional days depending on your county.
Do I need a lawyer to set up a Lady Bird Deed?
While not legally required, attorney preparation is strongly recommended. Lady Bird Deeds must meet specific Florida statutory requirements to be valid. Errors can result in title problems, failed transfers, or unintended tax consequences.
Can I set up a Lady Bird Deed for multiple properties?
Yes. Each property requires its own separate deed. Contact us for pricing on multiple properties.