FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the purpose of recording documents?

Recording documents fulfills the statutory requirements of perfecting documents in public records. The purpose of "recording" a document is to preserve it in an "archive" that is accessible when questions of precedence or ownership arise.

What happens to my document when it is presented for recording?

If the document meets the form requirements, is complete, and the proper fees have been paid we will accept your document and make it a matter of public record. We then key the pertinent information to create an index so that you may locate this document in the future. The document is scanned into our computer system and a backup copy is made. Your original document will be returned as directed. If the original document is ever lost or misplaced, a certified copy may be obtained from our office.

How do I add or remove a name from my property? 

Please obtain legal counsel to assist you in preparing the necessary documentation that will need to be recorded. Requirements vary depending on individual circumstances and NRS 7.285 prohibits this office from giving legal advice or assisting with the completion of forms.

Where do I obtain forms for recording purposes?

All Recorder’s offices provide a limited number of forms, including the Declaration of Value Form and Homestead Form. Other forms may be available other places such as office supply stores, stationary stores, real estate attorney offices or through online searches of legal forms websites. Please be sure that these forms meet any formatting requirements before mailing them to any Recorder’s office for recording. Mining forms and additional information are also available at websites for the Nevada Division of Minerals and the Bureau of Land Management. Uniform Commercial Code forms are available through the Nevada Secretary of State. 

What is the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate?

A marriage license is what a couple applies for before they get married. A marriage certificate is the document to be made public by the Recorder's office after the marriage ceremony has taken place. 

A certified copy of the marriage certificate may be obtained by your county recorder's office in all Nevada counties except for Clark County. Clark County marriage certificate copies are held with the Clark County Clerk. Certified copies are used as proof of marriage and may serve as proof of name change for legal purposes.

How do I obtain a copy of my marriage certificate?

The marriage certificate must be recorded in whatever county the marriage license application was filed, regardless of where the marriage ceremony took place. A certified copy of your marriage certificate will be available once the marriage official brings the certificate into the recorder's office for recording. By law, the marriage official has up to ten business days to have the marriage certificate recorded. Couples may contact the county Recorder's office for a certified copy of their marriage certificate in-person, on the phone, or likely on their online search and order platform. Any requests made by mail should include the names of both parties at the time of application, the date of marriage, return address, and contact phone number. By law, certified marriage certificate copies are $15.00.

How do I obtain a copy of my deed (or other official record)? 

Pursuant to NRS 247.305 copies of official records are $1.00 each page and copy fees must be collected in advance. Official record copies can be requested through the applicable county Recorder’s office. 

Can you search the records for me?

No. No Recorder’s office is licensed, bonded or insured to provide this type of service. Please contact either a title company, a private abstractor, or receive information from legal counsel to obtain this information.

Will the Recorder’s Office help me fill out my form?

Unfortunately, the Recorder's office employees are not authorized to practice law and are forbidden by state statute to offer legal advice. If you need assistance in filling out your forms, please consult with your attorney.

What is Real Property Transfer Tax?

Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT) is a tax collected when an interest in real property is conveyed pursuant to NRS 375. This amount is collected in addition to recording fees at the time of recording. A Declaration of Value form is required to be completed on which the tax is calculated. The basis for the tax is the actual selling price or the estimated market value. There are several exemptions from the tax. Visit the Nevada Department of Taxation for more transfer tax information.