Skip to main content

[AR] How should I title a home purchase to ensure my daughter inherits it while I retain control during my lifetime?

Jon
Jon

556 satisfied customers

View context
Solved

When it comes to setting up ownership of your new home in Arkansas, you have a few possible routes. The right one depends on your goals—mainly making sure your daughter gets the house directly and avoiding probate.

Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship:

You and your daughter would co-own the property. If you pass away, your share would automatically transfer to her without probate. The downside is that she would need to consent if you ever wanted to sell or mortgage the property. (AR Code § 18-12-106)

Tenancy in Common:

Each owner has a separate share, but your share would go through probate when you pass.

Since avoiding probate is a goal, this option likely isn’t ideal.

Based on what you’ve shared—paying cash, wanting full control during your lifetime, and ensuring a smooth transfer—the Beneficiary Deed is likely your best option.

As for Social Security: since your daughter receives Social Security as an adult disabled survivor (not SSI), owning the home will not affect her benefits. Those benefits are not means-tested and are based on your work record.

0

Arkansas Beneficiary Deed

Full Conversation


I want to sell my house in Alabama and buy a house in Arkansas. How do I set this up as a co-owner with my daughter to make sure she gets the house when I die? Will that eliminate probate for her?

Lexi

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand that you want to ensure a smooth transition of your property to your daughter. Have you already discussed the co-ownership arrangement with her?

Yes.

Lexi

Lexi, Chatbot

Are you currently living in Alabama, or have you already moved to Arkansas?

Currently in Alabama.

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 co-ownership arrangement.

I have other children that I am leaving other things to, but I do not want them involved in my real estate holdings.

Jon

Jon

Hello, and thank you for reaching out! I’m Jon, a licensed attorney with over 13 years of experience, and I’m here to help.

I understand legal matters can feel overwhelming, but you’re in good hands. I’ll do my best to make things clear and guide you toward the right solution for your situation.

It’s great that you’ve already discussed the co-ownership arrangement with your daughter. Are you planning to set up a joint tenancy or another type of co-ownership? This can affect how the property is transferred after your passing.

I don’t know how to set this up. Can you tell me which is best?

Jon

Jon

I understand you’re looking for the best way to set up co-ownership with your daughter. Are there any specific concerns or conditions you’d like to include in this arrangement?

I will pay cash for the house and own it outright. I want to make sure she can keep possession when I pass.

Jon

Jon

Understood! I believe I have all the information I need. Is there anything else you’d like to add before I start working on your answer?

Will this affect her Social Security benefits? She receives Social Security as an adult disabled survivor, not SSI.

Jon

Jon

When it comes to setting up ownership of your new home in Arkansas, you have a few possible routes. The right one depends on your goals—mainly making sure your daughter gets the house directly and avoiding probate.

Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship:

You and your daughter would co-own the property. If you pass away, your share would automatically transfer to her without probate. The downside is that she would need to consent if you ever wanted to sell or mortgage the property. (AR Code § 18-12-106)

Tenancy in Common:

Each owner has a separate share, but your share would go through probate when you pass.

Since avoiding probate is a goal, this option likely isn’t ideal.

Based on what you’ve shared—paying cash, wanting full control during your lifetime, and ensuring a smooth transfer—the Beneficiary Deed is likely your best option.

As for Social Security: since your daughter receives Social Security as an adult disabled survivor (not SSI), owning the home will not affect her benefits. Those benefits are not means-tested and are based on your work record.

Thank you so much. This was very helpful!!

Jon

Jon

You’re very welcome! I’m glad I could help. If you have any other questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a fantastic day!

Jon

Jon

556 satisfied customers

Jon
Welcome! Have a similar question?

12 lawyers online now

0:00

By messaging AskALawyer, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

Disclaimer


By messaging AskaLawyer.com, you agree to our Terms and have read our Privacy Policy.

The information provided on AskaLawyer.com is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information presented, we make no guarantees regarding its completeness or applicability to your specific circumstances.

Use of this website does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and AskaLawyer.com or any of its attorneys. Communications through this website, including any responses from attorneys, are not privileged or confidential. For advice tailored to your individual situation, we recommend consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

AskaLawyer.com disclaims any liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this site. We are not responsible for any third-party content that may be accessed through this website. Reliance on any information provided herein is solely at your own risk.

Ask a Lawyer Logo
Ask a Lawyer Logo
Intake Questions
Step  of 3
Loading...

Lexi, Chatbot

How would you like your legal question to be answered?

Online

Legal AI

Using ChatGPT 4o

Loading...

How do you like to pay?

By proceeding with payment, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. You authorize us to charge $ today and $ thereafter until canceled. You may cancel anytime in the My Account section to stop future charges.

Total Due:

After purchasing, your chat will begin with an attorney.

By proceeding with payment, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. You authorize us to charge $ today and $ thereafter until canceled. You may cancel anytime in the My Account section to stop future charges.

Total Due:

After purchasing, your chat will begin with an attorney.

After connecting, your chat will begin with an attorney.

After choosing, your chat will continue with Legal AI.

It looks like you already have an account with Ask a Lawyer.

We have sent you a magic link to . Click the link in your email to sign in and continue your chat.

spin

Step of 6 •

You'll receive an email at as soon as the lawyer joins the conversation 🙏🏻😊

Over 90% of lawyers connect within 5 minutes. If you're not online at that moment, don't worry — the lawyer will reply to your message while you're away.

You're also welcome to stay in the chat while waiting to be connected 💬✨

Waiting for lawyer

0:00