How to Record a Deed
Document recording is accepted in person or via US Mail or courier. Only original documents bearing actual signatures may be recorded. Faxed documents can not be accepted.
While we are happy to answer your questions about how to record documents, the office can not give legal advice about transferring property. You are urged to contact an attorney, abstract or title company to transfer real property.
All land transfers must adhere to Perry County‘s Subdivision Ordinance and the Illinois Plat Act. All property transfers outside of city and subdivision lots must be approved by the Supervisor of Assessments to assure compliance.
Original documents will be returned to the customer with document numbering information on the following business day. All recording is time-dated and placed on record in the order it is received. Most documents are recorded the day they are received.
A Real Estate Transfer Declaration (PTAX-203), commonly called the “green sheet,” reports the amount of real estate transfer tax due, and must accompany deeds for recording unless the document includes an exemption paragraph or exemption stamps.
Statutory Content of Recorded Documents
- Legal Description of Property – Legal description (parcel number) must be included in all documents. Also include street address.
- Signatures – Original signatures are required.
- Addresses – Include grantee address for tax billing on deeds.
- Notarization / Acknowledgement.
- Preparer – Must include name and address.
- Document Numbering – Doc number provided by Recorder.
Common Reasons for Rejection of Recording
- Real Estate Transfer Declaration or exemption stamp missing from deed.
- Fees incorrect.
- Legal description missing or wrong.
- “Prepared by” statement missing.
- Notary signature or seal missing.
- Document not dated or signed.
- Subsequent document missing reference to original document.
- Does not adhere to County Subdivision Ordinance / Plat Act.