Quit Claim Deed Guide: How They Work, When to Use One, and How to File
A quit claim deed is one of the simplest ways to transfer an interest in real estate. It moves whatever ownership the grantor has to the grantee — but, unlike a warranty deed, it makes no promise that the title is clear. That trade-off is exactly why quit claim deeds are common between people who already trust each other, and risky in a sale to a stranger. This guide explains how they work and links to the detailed pages on this site. None of it is legal advice — confirm your situation with a licensed attorney.
What a quit claim deed does (and doesn't do)
It transfers the grantor's interest, if any, in a specific property. It does not guarantee the grantor actually owns the property, that there are no liens, or that the title is marketable. It also does not move the mortgage — see how a quit claim deed affects the mortgage. Compare the protections side by side in quit claim vs warranty deed.
When people use one
- Adding or removing a spouse from the title (including in a divorce)
- Gifting property between family members
- Transferring property into a living trust or an LLC
- Clearing up a clouded title or correcting how a name appears
There are tax angles to most of these — gift tax, cost basis, and possible property-tax reassessment. Read quit claim deeds and taxes before you transfer.
How to complete and file one
- Build the deed with the correct names, the exact legal description, and the consideration.
- Sign in front of a notary (and witnesses, in states that require them).
- Record it with the county recorder where the property sits, and pay any transfer tax.
The full walkthrough is in how to file a quit claim deed and recording your deed at the county recorder. You can build the document now with the free quit claim deed maker.
State pointers
Signing, witness, and transfer-tax rules vary by state. Start with your state: California, Texas, Florida, New York, Georgia, or Pennsylvania.
Related instruments
A quit claim deed isn't always the right tool. To pass property at death without probate, look at a transfer-on-death deed. To clear title after a joint owner dies, see the survivorship affidavit. To check current ownership first, read how to find who owns a property.