Before proceeding, please review the  legal disclaimer.

How to Change Name on Home Deed in Texas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re going through a divorce, completing an inheritance, adding a spouse, or correcting a name error, learning how to change the name on a home deed in Texas is crucial to ensuring your property records are accurate and legally recognized.

At The Lange Firm, we help homeowners, heirs, and families update their real estate documents to reflect life changes and legal transitions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways to change a name on a deed, when it’s required, and how to do it correctly to avoid costly title issues down the road.

Why Would You Need to Change a Name on a Deed?

There are several common reasons why someone may need to update a deed:

• Marriage – adding a new spouse to title

• Divorce – removing a former spouse from title

• Name Change – legal name change due to marriage, divorce, or court order

• Inheritance – transferring title after the death of a loved one

• Gift – transferring property to a child, family member, or trust

• Correction – fixing errors such as misspelled names or incorrect ownership

Each scenario requires its own legal process and documentation, which is why it’s important to know the right method for your situation.

Can You Just Edit a Deed?

No. You cannot simply mark up or edit an existing deed to reflect a name change. Real estate transfers must follow specific legal protocols. You’ll need to create and file a new deed to reflect any changes.

Step-by-Step: How to Change a Name on a Home Deed in Texas

✅ Step 1: Determine the Type of Name Change Needed

Is this a legal name correction or an actual ownership change?

• If it’s a name correction (e.g., fixing a spelling error), a Corrective Deed may be appropriate.

• If it’s a change in ownership (e.g., due to divorce or inheritance), you’ll need to file a new deed, such as:

  • General Warranty Deed

  • Quitclaim Deed

  • Special Warranty Deed

  • Gift Deed

  • Executor’s Deed (for probate)

The Lange Firm can help determine the best legal tool for your situation.

✅ Step 2: Prepare the Correct Deed Document

Deed preparation must include:

• Full legal description of the property

• Grantor (current owner) and Grantee (person receiving ownership) information

• Type of deed and consideration (if any)

• Signatures of all parties involved

• Notarization of all signatures

Insert backlink here to: “What Is a Deed of Distribution?”

If the deed is being updated due to death, probate may be required before title can legally transfer.

✅ Step 3: Sign and Notarize the New Deed

Texas law requires that all deeds transferring real estate be signed and notarized. Every person currently listed on the deed must sign off unless a legal reason (like death or divorce decree) eliminates the need.

In some counties, remote notarization may be available, but traditional notarization is still preferred.

✅ Step 4: File the Deed with the County Clerk

Once the deed is signed and notarized, it must be recorded with the County Clerk’s office in the same county where the property is located.

You’ll need to:

• Submit the original deed

• Pay a filing fee (typically $25–$40 depending on the county)

• Obtain a certified copy for your records

Filing protects against future claims or disputes regarding ownership.

What Happens If You Don’t Update the Deed?

Failing to change a name on a deed can result in:

• Title confusion during resale

• Delay or denial of refinancing

• Probate delays

• Legal disputes among heirs or family members

• Property tax billing issues

If a spouse is left on title after divorce or if an heir never records the transfer, ownership rights may be contested later.

Special Situations: Divorce, Death, and Inheritance

🔸 After Divorce

A divorce decree does not automatically remove a spouse from the deed. A new deed (usually a Special Warranty Deed) must be executed and recorded.

🔸 After Death

If the deceased owned property in their name alone, the estate must go through probate before the title can be updated.

If the property was in a trust or had a Transfer-on-Death Deed, it may bypass probate.

The Lange Firm can help you determine the best path depending on how title was held.

Can You Change the Name Yourself Without a Lawyer?

In simple cases, like name corrections or intra-family transfers, it’s possible to draft a deed yourself or use a form service. However:

• Errors in language or legal description can void the deed

• Omitting proper signatures or notarization may result in rejection

• The wrong type of deed may trigger unwanted tax or liability consequences

To avoid expensive mistakes, many clients prefer to work with a lawyer—especially if the change relates to estate planning, divorce, or inheritance.

How The Lange Firm Helps You Change a Name on a Deed

Our legal team offers:

• Customized deed preparation

• Probate support if the property owner is deceased

• Divorce-related property division

• Title checks to confirm ownership

• Filing and recording services

• Flat fees for many standard deed changes

Whether you’re updating a deed as part of a real estate transfer, estate plan, or probate proceeding, we make the process efficient and legally sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

🟦 Does a name change due to marriage require a new deed?

Not always—but it’s recommended for clarity, especially when refinancing or selling. A new deed ensures your legal name matches the county record.

🟦 Is a Quitclaim Deed the best way to remove a name?

Quitclaim Deeds are fast but may offer no legal protections. For most property transfers, a Special Warranty or General Warranty Deed is better.

🟦 How long does it take to change a name on a deed?

Most name changes can be completed within 7–14 days, assuming all paperwork is in order and the county clerk’s office isn’t backlogged.

Final Thoughts: How to Change Name on Home Deed

Changing the name on a home deed in Texas isn’t difficult, but it’s a process that needs to be done correctly to avoid future problems. Whether your reason is a divorce, death, marriage, or inheritance, following the legal steps—and getting help when needed—ensures your property ownership is clean and protected.

📞 Contact The Lange Firm today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you navigate deed transfers with precision and peace of mind.