Understanding Tenancy by the Entirety: Property Ownership for Married Couples

A comprehensive guide to protecting your marital property rights through this unique form of joint ownership.

What is Tenancy by the Entirety?

Tenancy by the entirety (TBE) is a form of property ownership exclusively available to married couples, where each spouse owns 100% of the property with special rights of survivorship. This ownership structure provides unique legal protections and benefits that distinguish it from other forms of property ownership.

Key Characteristics

  • Unity of Ownership: Both spouses own the entire property
  • Right of Survivorship: Property automatically passes to surviving spouse
  • Creditor Protection: Individual creditors cannot seize the property
  • Mutual Consent: Both spouses must agree to property transfers

Benefits of Tenancy by the Entirety

Asset Protection

Shields property from individual creditors, protecting your family home from personal debts.

Estate Planning

Simplifies inheritance by automatically transferring property to the surviving spouse.

Tax Benefits

May provide advantages for estate tax planning and property tax assessments.

Legal Protection

Prevents one spouse from selling or encumbering the property without consent.

Property Rights Calculator

State Laws Comparison

State TBE Available Property Types Special Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can hold property as tenants by the entirety?

Only married couples can hold property as tenants by the entirety. This includes same-sex married couples following the Supreme Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges.

What happens to the property in case of divorce?

In case of divorce, the tenancy by the entirety is automatically converted to a tenancy in common, and each spouse typically receives a 50% interest in the property.

Can creditors seize property held in tenancy by the entirety?

Individual creditors cannot seize property held in tenancy by the entirety. However, joint creditors (creditors of both spouses) may be able to place a lien on the property.

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