Recording a quitclaim deed is the final—and arguably most important—step in transferring property ownership. Without proper recording, your deed transfer may not be legally recognized, leaving you vulnerable to ownership disputes and title complications. This comprehensive guide walks you through the recording process across all 50 states, ensuring your property transfer is completed correctly and legally.
What Does It Mean to Record a Quitclaim Deed?
Recording a quitclaim deed means filing the signed and notarized document with the appropriate government office in the county where the property is located. This creates a public record of the property transfer and establishes a clear chain of title, as outlined in the American Bar Association’s Guide to Real Estate Transfers.
Think of recording as making your private property agreement “official” in the eyes of the law. Until a deed is recorded, it exists only as a private contract between the parties involved. Recording transforms it into a public declaration of ownership that protects all future property transactions.
Why Recording Is Essential
Legal Protection: Recording provides legal notice to the world that ownership has changed hands. This protects the new owner from potential claims by previous owners or creditors, according to Uniform Commercial Code guidelines.
Title Insurance Requirements: Most title insurance companies require recorded deeds before issuing policies. The American Land Title Association emphasizes that without recording, you may be unable to obtain title insurance for future transactions.
Mortgage and Refinancing: Lenders typically require recorded deeds before approving mortgages or refinancing applications.
Resale Protection: When you eventually sell the property, buyers and their lenders will expect to see a complete chain of recorded ownership transfers.
Before You Begin: Recording Prerequisites
Document Requirements
Before you can record your quitclaim deed, ensure you have:
✅ Properly Executed Deed: The deed must be signed by the grantor (person transferring the property) in the presence of a notary public. Some states also require witness signatures.
✅ Accurate Legal Description: The property description must exactly match the description in previous recorded documents. Even minor discrepancies can cause recording rejections.
✅ Correct Names and Addresses: All parties’ names must be spelled exactly as they appear on official identification, and current mailing addresses must be included.
✅ Notarization: The grantor’s signature must be notarized according to your state’s requirements. The National Notary Association provides guidelines on proper notarization procedures. Some states require specific notarial language or multiple notarizations.
Additional Documentation
Depending on your state and local requirements, you may also need:
- Transfer tax forms or payments
- Property disclosure statements
- Preliminary change of ownership reports
- Homestead exemption applications
- Death certificates (for inherited property transfers)
Step-by-Step Recording Process
Step 1: Determine the Correct Recording Office
County Recorder’s Office: Most states require recording at the county level, typically with the County Recorder, County Clerk, or Register of Deeds office.
Location Rule: Always record in the county where the property is physically located, regardless of where the parties live.
Office Hours: Most recording offices operate during standard business hours (8 AM – 5 PM), though some offer limited evening or weekend services.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents and Fees
Document Preparation: Make multiple copies of your quitclaim deed. You’ll typically need the original for recording and certified copies for your records.
Fee Calculation: Recording fees vary significantly by state and county, ranging from $10 to over $100. Some areas charge per page, while others have flat rates.
Payment Methods: Most offices accept cash, checks, or money orders. Some modern offices accept credit cards, though convenience fees may apply.
Step 3: Visit the Recording Office
Bring Everything: Original deed, copies, payment, valid photo identification, and any additional required documents.
Review Process: Recording office staff will review your deed for completeness and compliance with local requirements before accepting it for recording.
Corrections: If issues are found, you may need to correct and re-notarize the deed before it can be recorded.
Step 4: Complete the Recording
Assignment of Recording Information: Once accepted, your deed will be assigned a recording number, book and page reference, or digital recording number.
Return of Documents: The original deed will be returned to you with recording stamps and numbers. This recorded deed is now the official proof of your property transfer.
Processing Time: Most recordings are processed the same day, though some busy offices may take 1-2 business days.
State-by-State Recording Requirements
Alabama
- Recording Office: Probate Court (Judge of Probate)
- Fees: Typically $15-30 per deed
- Special Requirements: Must include grantor’s and grantee’s addresses
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Alaska
- Recording Office: District Recorder
- Fees: $20 for first page, $5 for each additional page
- Special Requirements: Must record within 30 days to maintain priority
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day to 2 business days
Arizona
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: Varies by county ($18-50 typical range)
- Special Requirements: Affidavit of Property Value required
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Arkansas
- Recording Office: Circuit Clerk or County Clerk
- Fees: $10 for first page, $3 for each additional page
- Special Requirements: Must include property address
- Transfer Tax: $3.30 per $1,000 of property value
- Processing Time: Same day
California
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: Varies by county ($15-75 typical range)
- Special Requirements: Preliminary Change of Ownership Report (PCOR) often required
- Transfer Tax: Varies by city/county ($1.10 per $1,000 typical)
- Processing Time: Same day to 1 business day
Colorado
- Recording Office: Clerk and Recorder
- Fees: Typically $13 for first page, $5 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Must include mailing address for tax statements
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax (some local taxes may apply)
- Processing Time: Same day
Connecticut
- Recording Office: Town Clerk
- Fees: $55 for first page, $5 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Conveyance Tax Affidavit required
- Transfer Tax: 0.75% of property value
- Processing Time: Same day
Delaware
- Recording Office: Recorder of Deeds
- Fees: $50 plus $10 per additional page
- Special Requirements: Transfer tax must be paid before recording
- Transfer Tax: 4% of property value (2% buyer, 2% seller)
- Processing Time: Same day
Florida
- Recording Office: Clerk of Circuit Court
- Fees: $10 for first page, $8.50 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Documentary stamp tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $0.70 per $100 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Georgia
- Recording Office: Clerk of Superior Court
- Fees: $15 for first page, $2 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: PT-61 form for property tax purposes
- Transfer Tax: $1.00 per $1,000 of property value
- Processing Time: Same day
Hawaii
- Recording Office: Bureau of Conveyances
- Fees: $20 plus $0.20 per additional page
- Special Requirements: Conveyance tax certificate required
- Transfer Tax: $0.10-0.15 per $100 depending on value and use
- Processing Time: 1-2 business days
Idaho
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: $10 for first page, $3 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Must include return address
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Illinois
- Recording Office: County Recorder of Deeds
- Fees: Varies by county ($25-50 typical)
- Special Requirements: Real Estate Transfer Declaration required
- Transfer Tax: $0.50 per $500 of property value (state) plus local taxes
- Processing Time: Same day to 1 business day
Indiana
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: $8 for first page, $3 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Government Services Fee applies
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Iowa
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: $30 for first page, $5 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Declaration of Value required
- Transfer Tax: $1.60 per $1,000 of taxable value
- Processing Time: Same day
Kansas
- Recording Office: Register of Deeds
- Fees: $12 for first page, $4 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Mortgage registration tax may apply
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Kentucky
- Recording Office: County Clerk
- Fees: $34 for first page, $2 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: State transfer tax stamps required
- Transfer Tax: $0.50 per $500 of property value
- Processing Time: Same day
Louisiana
- Recording Office: Clerk of Court or Parish Recorder
- Fees: Varies by parish ($25-50 typical)
- Special Requirements: Notarial acts must comply with Louisiana law
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day to 2 business days
Maine
- Recording Office: Registry of Deeds
- Fees: $22 for first page, $4 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Property Transfer Tax Declaration required
- Transfer Tax: $2.20 per $1,000 of value
- Processing Time: Same day
Maryland
- Recording Office: Clerk of Circuit Court
- Fees: $50 for first 4 pages, $5 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: State and local transfer taxes must be paid
- Transfer Tax: 0.5% state plus local taxes (varies by county)
- Processing Time: Same day
Massachusetts
- Recording Office: Registry of Deeds
- Fees: $135 for first page, $10 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Deed Excise Tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $4.56 per $1,000 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Michigan
- Recording Office: Register of Deeds
- Fees: $12 for first page, $3 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Property Transfer Affidavit required
- Transfer Tax: $3.75 per $500 of taxable value
- Processing Time: Same day
Minnesota
- Recording Office: County Recorder or Registrar of Titles
- Fees: $56 for first page, $5 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Certificate of Real Estate Value required
- Transfer Tax: $1.65 per $500 of taxable consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Mississippi
- Recording Office: Chancery Clerk
- Fees: $15 for first page, $2 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Must include grantee’s address
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Missouri
- Recording Office: Recorder of Deeds
- Fees: $3 for first page, $3 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Declaration of value may be required
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Montana
- Recording Office: Clerk and Recorder
- Fees: $7 for first page, $2 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Realty Transfer Certificate required
- Transfer Tax: $3.00 per $1,000 of taxable consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Nebraska
- Recording Office: Register of Deeds
- Fees: $14 for first page, $1 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Statement of Consideration required
- Transfer Tax: $2.25 per $1,000 of taxable value
- Processing Time: Same day
Nevada
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: $12 for first page, $1 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Declaration of Consideration required
- Transfer Tax: $1.95 per $500 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
New Hampshire
- Recording Office: Registry of Deeds
- Fees: $20 for first page, $4 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Real Estate Transfer Tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $7.50 per $1,000 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
New Jersey
- Recording Office: County Clerk
- Fees: $25 for first page, $10 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Realty Transfer Fee must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $5.05 per $1,000 of consideration (varies by municipality)
- Processing Time: Same day
New Mexico
- Recording Office: County Clerk
- Fees: $7 for first page, $1 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Real Property Transfer Declaration required
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
New York
- Recording Office: County Clerk or City Register (NYC)
- Fees: Varies significantly by county ($5-50+ per page)
- Special Requirements: Transfer tax must be paid before recording
- Transfer Tax: $4.00 per $1,000 plus local taxes
- Processing Time: Same day to 2 business days
North Carolina
- Recording Office: Register of Deeds
- Fees: $26 for first 15 pages, $4 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Excise Tax Certificate required
- Transfer Tax: $2.00 per $1,000 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
North Dakota
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: $12 for first page, $5 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Real Estate Transfer Declaration required
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Ohio
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: $34 for first 2 pages, $8 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Conveyance Fee Statement required
- Transfer Tax: $4.00 per $1,000 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Oklahoma
- Recording Office: County Clerk
- Fees: $12 for first page, $1 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Ad valorem tax statement may be required
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Oregon
- Recording Office: County Clerk or County Recorder
- Fees: $60 for first page, $5 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Real Estate Transfer Tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $1.10 per $1,000 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Pennsylvania
- Recording Office: Recorder of Deeds
- Fees: $59.50 for first page, $4 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Transfer tax stamps must be affixed
- Transfer Tax: 2% of consideration (varies by municipality)
- Processing Time: Same day
Rhode Island
- Recording Office: City/Town Clerk
- Fees: $40.50 for first page, $1.50 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Real Estate Conveyance Tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $2.30 per $500 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
South Carolina
- Recording Office: Register of Deeds or Clerk of Court
- Fees: $12 for first page, $1 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Deed Transfer Tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $1.85 per $500 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
South Dakota
- Recording Office: Register of Deeds
- Fees: $30 for first page, $2 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Property Transfer Declaration required
- Transfer Tax: $0.50 per $500 of taxable consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Tennessee
- Recording Office: Register of Deeds
- Fees: $12 for first page, $5 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Transfer tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $0.37 per $100 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Texas
- Recording Office: County Clerk
- Fees: $4 for first page, $4 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Must include mailing addresses
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Utah
- Recording Office: County Recorder
- Fees: $20 for first page, $2 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Real Estate Transfer Declaration required
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Vermont
- Recording Office: Town Clerk
- Fees: $20 for first page, $10 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Property Transfer Tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: 1.25% of property value
- Processing Time: Same day
Virginia
- Recording Office: Circuit Court Clerk
- Fees: $16 for first page, $3 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Grantor tax must be paid
- Transfer Tax: $0.50 per $500 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Washington
- Recording Office: County Auditor
- Fees: $62 for first page, $1 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit required
- Transfer Tax: 1.28% of selling price
- Processing Time: Same day
West Virginia
- Recording Office: County Clerk
- Fees: $30 for first page, $1 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Transfer tax stamps required
- Transfer Tax: $3.50 per $1,000 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Wisconsin
- Recording Office: Register of Deeds
- Fees: $30 for first page, $2 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Real Property Transfer Declaration required
- Transfer Tax: $3.00 per $1,000 of consideration
- Processing Time: Same day
Wyoming
- Recording Office: County Clerk
- Fees: $10 for first page, $3 for additional pages
- Special Requirements: Statement of Consideration required
- Transfer Tax: No state transfer tax
- Processing Time: Same day
Common Recording Mistakes to Avoid
Document Preparation Errors
Incorrect Legal Description: Even minor differences from previous recorded documents can cause rejection. Always copy the legal description exactly from the most recent deed or survey.
Missing Notarization: Every grantor must have their signature notarized. Missing or defective notarizations are the most common cause of recording delays.
Improper Names: Names must match official identification exactly. “Bob Smith” and “Robert Smith” are different legal entities.
Process Mistakes
Wrong Recording Office: Recording in the wrong county or office means your deed has no legal effect. Always verify the property’s county location.
Insufficient Fees: Bring extra money for unexpected fees. Some counties charge additional fees for oversized documents or expedited processing.
Missing Supporting Documents: Research all local requirements before visiting the recording office. Missing transfer tax forms or disclosure statements will delay recording.
Timing Issues
Recording Delays: Some states have priority rules that favor earlier recordings. Don’t delay recording once your deed is properly executed.
Business Hours: Recording offices typically operate during standard business hours. Plan accordingly and arrive with plenty of time before closing.
Professional Guidance: When to Consult Experts
Complex Situations Requiring Professional Help
Multiple Owners: When adding or removing multiple parties from a deed, professional guidance ensures proper legal documentation and recording procedures.
Trust Transfers: Moving property into or out of trusts involves complex legal and tax considerations that require professional oversight.
Divorce-Related Transfers: Property transfers during divorce proceedings often require court approval and specific legal procedures.
Estate Planning: Using quitclaim deeds for estate planning purposes requires careful consideration of tax implications and proper execution timing.
Professional Resources
Real Estate Attorneys: For complex legal situations, property disputes, or high-value transfers, legal counsel ensures proper documentation and recording. The American Bar Association’s Real Property Section provides resources for finding qualified attorneys.
Title Companies: Professional title companies can handle the entire recording process while providing title insurance protection. The American Land Title Association maintains directories of certified title professionals.
Real Estate Professionals: Experienced agents and brokers can guide you through local recording requirements and connect you with appropriate professionals.
According to legal experts at Deeds.com, “While many quitclaim deed recordings are straightforward, consulting with professionals for complex situations can prevent costly mistakes and ensure full legal protection.”
State Considerations and Special Requirements
Transfer Tax Variations
Transfer taxes vary dramatically by state, ranging from zero (Texas, Idaho, Wyoming) to over 4% of property value (Delaware), according to data from the Federation of Tax Administrators. Some key considerations:
State vs. Local Taxes: Some states have no transfer tax but allow local municipalities to impose their own taxes.
Exemptions: Many states provide exemptions for transfers between family members, transfers to correct title defects, or transfers for nominal consideration.
Payment Timing: Most states require transfer tax payment before recording, while others allow payment at the time of recording.
Recording Office Variations
Office Names: Recording offices go by different names across states (County Recorder, Register of Deeds, County Clerk, etc.) but serve the same function.
Operating Hours: Most offices operate during standard business hours, though some offer extended hours or online services.
Technology Levels: Some counties offer electronic recording and online document preparation, while others still operate entirely on paper.
Special State Requirements
California: Often requires a Preliminary Change of Ownership Report (PCOR) to be filed with the county assessor.
Texas: Requires all documents to include current mailing addresses for all parties.
New York: Has complex transfer tax calculations that vary significantly by location and property value.
Louisiana: Follows unique civil law traditions requiring specific notarial procedures as outlined in the Louisiana Civil Code.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Recording your quitclaim deed is a crucial step that transforms your private property agreement into a legally recognized ownership transfer. While the process varies by state, following the proper procedures ensures your transfer is legally valid and provides maximum protection for all parties involved.
Key Takeaways:
- Always record in the county where the property is located
- Prepare all required documents and fees before visiting the recording office
- Verify state-specific requirements and transfer tax obligations
- Keep multiple certified copies of your recorded deed for future reference
Next Steps:
- Gather Requirements: Research your specific county’s recording requirements and fees
- Prepare Documents: Ensure your quitclaim deed is properly executed and notarized
- Visit Recording Office: Bring all required documents, fees, and identification
- Maintain Records: Store your recorded deed safely and maintain copies for future transactions
For complex property transfers or when you’re unsure about specific requirements, consider consulting with a real estate attorney or title professional. The cost of professional guidance is often minimal compared to the potential complications of improperly recorded deeds.
Remember, proper recording protects your property rights and ensures smooth future transactions. Take the time to do it right, and your property transfer will provide years of clear, undisputed ownership.
This guide provides general information about quitclaim deed recording across all 50 states. Laws and procedures can change, and local requirements may vary. Always consult with local recording offices and legal professionals for specific guidance regarding your property transfer.
