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1. How do I change the name on my deed?

Once a document has been filed in this office, the document itself cannot be changed. To transfer the real estate or mineral interest, a new deed will need to be prepared, signed, and notarized. To avoid future legal problems, we recommend using a title company or an attorney.

2. What happens if I lose my deed?

Nothing, providing it was filed in this office. Our office keeps copies of deeds and other documents filed in this office. For a small fee, anyone may request a copy of a document. 

3. Do I receive a new deed after paying off my house?

No. A deed, once filed, remains unchanged - however, our records will show that your mortgage has been paid.

4. What is the Register of Deeds Office?

The Register of Deeds office is the county office where transactions involving real estate are recorded; i.e.: deeds, mortgages, mortgage releases, oil & gas leases, tax liens, etc. This office also files financing statements and mechanic liens on personal property. These records are open to the public. Military discharges are also filed here, but are not available to the public.

5. What is a deed?

A deed is a document that transfers real estate from one party to another.

6. Will the Register of Deeds office prepare and/or notarize my deed?

No, our office does not prepare any documents for filing in our office. We also do not have a notary in office.

7. What are the requirements for filing a document?

Per state statute, a document must have a legal description, have original signatures, be notarized with an original seal, and have the correct filing fee, in order to be filed. 

Any deed, in which real estate is being transferred, must be accompanied by a Kansas Sales Validation Questionnaire when filing. This is a form required by the state to assist the County Appraiser in assessing the property.

8. Can I find birth, death and marriage records in the register of deeds office?

Sorry – these records are filed with the Division of Vital Statistics in Topeka, Kansas. We do have forms that you can fill out to obtain certified copies of these records – or you can visit their website below and download the forms. Their phone number is 785-296-1400.

9. Is there a title for real estate like there is for a car?

No, real estate and minerals do not have a "title" like a vehicle or mobile home. Deeds and other documents can transfer a person's interest. We often refer to the "chain of title," which means the series of documents that show the transfers of ownership.

10. Can I access your records online?

Yes, but only through subscription. Please, see our Online Searching Subscriptions.

11. How is real estate property transferred?

Real estate is transferred either through filing a deed or through a court case, in which a judge orders the property be transferred

12. Can documents be filed electronically?

Yes, our office does electronic filing (e-files) through Simplifile, however; we are not set up to accept personal property liens through e-file. We also have a cut off time of 4:00 pm to ensure we have time for processing and end-of-day procedures.