What Is a Recording Fee?

Introduction

The recording fee is paid to the county or local government to record your deed and mortgage (or deed of trust) in public records. Recording establishes your ownership and the lender's lien on the property. The fee typically appears on your Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure under government recording charges.

What Gets Recorded

The deed transfers ownership to you and is recorded. The mortgage or deed of trust secures the loan and is also recorded. Both documents become part of the public record, which helps protect your ownership and the lender's interest.

Typical Costs

Recording fees vary by county and state. They often range from about $50 to $300 or more, depending on the number of pages and local rates. The title or escrow company typically handles recording and passes the fee to you at closing. See What Are Closing Costs and What Happens at Closing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a recording fee?

The recording fee is paid to the county or local government to record your deed and mortgage (or deed of trust) in public records. Recording establishes your ownership and the lender's lien on the property.

How much does recording cost?

Recording fees vary by county and state. They often range from about $50 to $300 or more, depending on the number of pages and local rates. Some jurisdictions charge per page.

Can I shop for recording fees?

Recording fees are set by the government and are typically non-negotiable. The title or escrow company usually handles the recording and passes the fee to you at closing.

Who pays the recording fee?

In many transactions, the buyer pays to record the deed and mortgage. In some areas, the seller pays to record the deed of release. Custom varies by location and negotiation.