California Probate
How do I remove a deceased person's name from a property title in California?
Short answer
Method depends on how the property was held: joint tenancy → affidavit of survivorship + death certificate filed with county recorder. Community property → spousal property petition or trust distribution. TOD deed → file the deed plus death certificate. Probate estate →…
What this usually means
Method depends on how the property was held: joint tenancy → affidavit of survivorship + death certificate filed with county recorder. Community property → spousal property petition or trust distribution. TOD deed → file the deed plus death certificate. Probate estate → court order after probate. Trust → trustee deed after death. Do not leave a deceased person's name on a title — it complicates future sales and refinancing.
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What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.