How do I file a quitclaim deed in Missouri?

1. Quitclaim vs Warranty Deed

Missouri quitclaim (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 442.460) conveys whatever interest the grantor has. A general warranty deed (§ 442.420) carries the statutory warranty covenants; a special warranty deed warrants only against grantor's acts.

2. Common Uses

Divorce, interspousal transfers, gifts to family, trust funding, removing an ex-spouse, beneficiary deed (TOD) under § 461.025 is a common alternative for testamentary transfers.

3. Execution Formalities

Mo. Rev. Stat. § 442.130 — deed in writing signed by the grantor; § 442.150 — acknowledged before a notary for recording. No subscribing witnesses required.

4. Required Contents

Grantor and grantee names with addresses, legal description, parcel ID, words of conveyance ("does hereby remise, release, and quitclaim"), consideration recital. Cover sheet required by some counties.

5. Recording

County Recorder of Deeds where the land sits (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 59.310); recording fees roughly $24 first page + $3 per additional page.

6. Transfer Tax

Missouri has NO state real estate transfer tax. Only recording fees and the small Missouri Housing Trust Fund fee ($3) apply.

7. Title Insurance Limits

MO title insurers typically decline to insure based on a recent quitclaim without curative work.

8. Pitfalls

Quitclaim doesn't release mortgage liability; due-on-sale risk; Garn-St. Germain (12 U.S.C. § 1701j-3) shields qualifying family transfers. Missouri abolished dower in 1955 but spousal joinder is still wise on marital residence.

9. Special Local Rules

Missouri beneficiary deed (§ 461.025) is a powerful estate-planning tool — quitclaim into a trust may be unnecessary in some cases.

This is legal information, not legal advice.