Erin Artz Volunteers at Habitat for Humanity’s TODD Clinic, Supporting Homeowners and Future Attorneys
Lamson Dugan & Murray LLP attorney Erin Artz recently volunteered at the Habitat for Humanity of Omaha Transfer on Death Deed (TODD) Clinic, continuing her ongoing commitment to helping individuals protect their homes and providing guidance to the next generation of attorneys.
The TODD Clinic helps homeowners prepare Transfer on Death Deeds—a tool that allows a property owner to name a beneficiary who will take ownership of the home without going through probate. This can be especially valuable for individuals whose home is their primary asset.
During the clinic, Erin assisted homeowners one-on-one while also supporting Creighton University law students in attendance, offering mentorship as they learned how TODDs work in real-world practice.
In describing the importance of these tools, Erin explained:
“Transfer on Death Deeds allow a property owner to designate a beneficiary to take ownership of the home without having to go through the probate process. By recording a transfer on death deed, the property owner retains ownership during their lifetime, then the TODD takes effect upon the homeowner’s death. In situations where someone’s only asset with significant value is their home, this is a tool that is often used.
However, there are certain limitations to TODDs. The property is still subject to inheritance tax and estate recovery, and unlike comprehensive estate planning, it does not provide a way for complex contingency planning or ongoing conditions on the beneficiary’s inheritance. Those who use TODDs should still have a will and consult with an attorney to determine which other actions maybe necessary for their estate to avoid probate entirely.”
LDM is proud to support Erin’s continued volunteer work and her commitment to helping families secure their homes, while also mentoring law students as they begin their careers.
To learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Omaha’s TODD clinics, click here.
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