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[HI] How can I correct a rejected Hawaii Transfer on Death Deed when the notary wrote my full middle name but I signed with an initial, and what’s the proper way to show that both name versions refer to me?

The state of Hawaii rejected my Transfer on Death Deed because my name (Mary, which is how I sign my name, without writing out my middle name, E). But the notary hand-printed my full name on the notarized page, even though I signed using just the initial E. My driver’s license is my ID. It also has my full name printed on it, but I signed it as Mary. What is the best legal way to correct this? Is there a way to indicate that both ways are me?

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Legal Eagle
Legal Eagle

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I sincerely apologize for the delay — the website crashed, and our support team needed a moment to get it back online. I’m still right here with you, and I truly appreciate your patience.

Here’s the important part:
You can fix this issue by redoing the Transfer on Death Deed and making sure the notary records your name exactly as it appears on your existing deed — “Mary.” The notary’s wording should match your signature and the name already on record, with no variations.

If there’s any chance the recorder might question the name difference, you can include a simple declaration or affidavit confirming that “Mary E.” and “Mary” are the same person. That small clarification is usually enough to satisfy the recording office and prevent any further rejection.

In short, all you really need to do is re-execute the TOD deed with the notary using the exact name already on your official deed, and—if you want to be extra safe—add a short affidavit explaining that both versions of your name belong to you. Once that’s done, the recorder should accept the filing without any trouble. It’s a straightforward fix, and you’re absolutely on the right track getting ahead of it now.

If there’s anything else you’re unsure about or another part of the process you want to go over, I’m here and happy to help.

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Transfer on Death Deed

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The state of Hawaii rejected my Transfer on Death Deed because my name (Mary, which is how I sign my name, without writing out my middle name, E). But the notary hand-printed my full name on the notarized page, even though I signed using just the initial E. My driver’s license is my ID. It also has my full name printed on it, but I signed it as Mary. What is the best legal way to correct this? Is there a way to indicate that both ways are me?

Lexi

Lexi, Chatbot

I'm sorry to hear about the rejection of your Transfer on Death Deed. Did the rejection specify any particular reason for the issue?

Please read all of my previous message.

Lexi

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you consulted with a lawyer in Hawaii regarding this matter?

No.

Lexi

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with your deed correction.

Also my name appears as Mary on the warranty deed when I bought the house in 2015.

Legal Eagle

Legal Eagle

Hello! Legal Eagle here, and I am an attorney specializing in your area of law. I am more than happy to help you with your situation!
Can you confirm if your signature on the Transfer on Death Deed matched the name you used on the Warranty Deed?

I am checking. Just a minute. Yes. Mary everywhere on warranty deed. I signed TODD the same way. But notary hand-printed my full name on her page of the TODD even though I signed it Mary. Is there a way to indicate that both ways are still me on the TODD? Are you still there? Perhaps I should ask the notary to try again? Are you still there? 

Legal Eagle

Legal Eagle

I sincerely apologize for the delay — the website crashed, and our support team needed a moment to get it back online. I’m still right here with you, and I truly appreciate your patience.

Here’s the important part:
You can fix this issue by redoing the Transfer on Death Deed and making sure the notary records your name exactly as it appears on your existing deed — “Mary.” The notary’s wording should match your signature and the name already on record, with no variations.

If there’s any chance the recorder might question the name difference, you can include a simple declaration or affidavit confirming that “Mary E.” and “Mary” are the same person. That small clarification is usually enough to satisfy the recording office and prevent any further rejection.

In short, all you really need to do is re-execute the TOD deed with the notary using the exact name already on your official deed, and—if you want to be extra safe—add a short affidavit explaining that both versions of your name belong to you. Once that’s done, the recorder should accept the filing without any trouble. It’s a straightforward fix, and you’re absolutely on the right track getting ahead of it now.

If there’s anything else you’re unsure about or another part of the process you want to go over, I’m here and happy to help.

OK thanks.

Legal Eagle

Legal Eagle

128,690 satisfied customers

Criminal law, employment law, family law, landlord-tenant, and real estate law.

Legal Eagle
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