Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Adding Name via Interspousal Deed Which Exclusion Applies?

We had to remove my wife's name from original title in order to get our refinance approved. I want to add my wife's name back onto the deed/title that now shows me with sole and separate property.

I was going to record a quit claim deed but I want to be sure that I don't trigger a reassessement of the property which leads me to submit--name removed--Interspousal Transfer Deed instead because reassessment (reappraisal)is excluded under the ITD.

However, I'm not sure which exclusion box to check on the ITD. I believe it should be ''From one spouse to both spouses.'' Is this the correct box to check? Grantor (me) will grant to Grantee (me and wife)--name removed--community property with right of suvivorship.

I will also be submitting Prelim. Change of Ownership Report. This legal site has been very helpful.

Thanks for any advice.


Asked on 1/18/02, 2:09 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Wayne Smith Wayne V. R. Smith

Re: Adding Name via Interspousal Deed Which Exclusion Applies?

That would be fine in that box. The deed should also claim the exemption on its face. Here is what I put in my deeds just above the grant area:

There is no Documentary transfer tax due because this deed is an interspousal transfer, and there is no consideration for this transfer. Exemption from reappraisal occurs under Revenue & Taxation Code, Section 62(d).

NOTE: Please understand that the information provided in this reply is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. It also may not be complete, and is designed for general information to parties under California law. Before you make any decision that might possibly have legal implications, you should consult with our office, or another qualified professional, so that thorough legal advice can be provided in a manner that relates to your specific circumstances. Thank you.

Reply Posted By:

Wayne V.R. Smith

Attorney at Law

P.O. Box 3219

Martinez CA 94553

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Answered on 1/18/02, 10:34 am
Victor Hobbs Victor E. Hobbs

Re: Adding Name via Interspousal Deed Which Exclusion Applies?

I read the previous answer. The deed will show from you, to you and your spouse, as husband and wife. If you want to add more that's fine. As for the additional sheet that you fill out to exempt the property from a Prop. 13 reappraisal I check every box I think may apply. Off hand don't recall what the sheet is named. If you really want to get smart. You'll look into doing a family trust, and putting the house into the trust. The trust package should include all the other powers of attorney, instructions, additional letters, etc. That are included in a professionally done estate planning package commonly called a family (inter vivos) trust.

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Answered on 1/18/02, 11:17 am
Chris Johnson Christopher B. Johnson, Attorney at Law

Re: Adding Name via Interspousal Deed Which Exclusion Applies?

The deed should state that the transfer is exempt from tax, and the preliminary change of ownership report will have a box to check showing it's exempt as well.

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Answered on 1/18/02, 5:30 pm


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