Recording Requirements

The following tips will help your document be ready to record:

  • Only original documents or certified copies may be recorded.
  • Pages must be white, standard weight, and either letter- or legal-sized. No hinged pages are allowed. Ink must be black.
  • The document must be legible and reproducible.
  • There must be a blank 3-inch by 3-inch space in the upper right-hand corner for the register's recording stamp.
  • The return address must be located either directly under the recording area or on the left within the top 3 inches of the page.
  • All pages must have a minimum of a half-inch margin across the top. The first page must have minimum quarter-inch margins on sides and bottom.
  • Paper must be 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches, or 8 1/2 inches by 14 inches.
  • Signatures must be notarized with the notary commission date stated.
  • If the notary is in Wisconsin, the drafter of the document must be an individual.
  • Names must be printed below signatures.
  • The proper fee must accompany the document.
  • The document must have a complete legal description.
  • No social security numbers are allowed on documents.
  • Deeds, land contracts, and judgments require the Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Form.

We will review your documents for these items but the ultimate responsibility for a complete and correct document is yours. Ask for assistance if you need it.