Under the Iowa Code, the beneficiary of an interest in property may renounce the gift, either in part or in full (Chapter 633E Uniform Disclaimer of Property Interest Act). Note that the option to disclaim is only available to beneficiaries who have not acted in any way to indicate acceptance or ownership of the interest.

The disclaimer must be in writing and include a description of the interest, a declaration of intent to disclaim all or a defined portion of the interest, and be signed by the disclaimant (633E.5 (3)).

Deliver the disclaimer within nine months of the transfer (e.g., the death of the creator of the interest) to the personal representative of the decedent's estate, or with the court that has the power to appoint such a person (633E.12 (3)). In the case of real property, record a copy of the disclaimer in the office of the county recorder in the county or counties where the real estate is located (633E.13 (a)).

A disclaimer is irrevocable and binding for the disclaiming party and his or her creditors, so be sure to consult an attorney when in doubt about the drawbacks and benefits of disclaiming inherited property. If the disclaimed interest arises out of jointly-owned property, seek legal advice as well.

(Iowa Disclaimer of Interest Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example)

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