Quick Answer
What do I need for a Michigan lady bird deed (enhanced life estate deed)?
A Michigan lady bird deed names who generally receives the property at death while the owner retains broad lifetime control. You need the current recorded deed, exact legal description, parcel number, and beneficiary names. After review, the deed is signed before a notary and recorded with the county register of deeds; applicable assessor paperwork depends on the transfer event.
Required Forms
- L-4260Property Transfer Affidavit (filed with the local assessor)
- Form 2705Real Estate Transfer Tax Valuation Affidavit (if applicable)
Documents to Gather
Filing Steps, In Order
- 1.Pull the current deed from the county register of deeds
- 2.Confirm the exact legal description and how title is currently held
- 3.Provide the beneficiary names and ownership instructions you or your attorney have chosen
- 4.Prepare the enhanced life estate (lady bird) deed
- 5.Sign in front of a notary — every current owner must sign
- 6.Record the deed with the county register of deeds
- 7.File the L-4260 Property Transfer Affidavit with the local assessor
Costs (Estimated)
County recording is generally $30 per document under MCL 600.2567, with possible additional charges. Tax, exemption, and uncapping treatment depends on the facts; consult an attorney or tax professional.
Questions about anything on this list?
Text or call us and describe your situation — we will tell you exactly which documents apply to you. Every matter is reviewed before we quote a price, and nothing is purchased online.
Related Probate & Estate checklists
Reviewed and updated by the Clear Path document team. Informational only — not legal advice.