Please note that recorder’s offices around the State of Illinois are more closely enforcing requirements to record a document. Be sure your recordable documents meet all requirements to avoid recording delays and extra charges.

Use the following checklist when reviewing your documents for recording:

Documents presented for recording in the State of Illinois must conform to these requirements:

• Be on white 8.5 x 11 inch paper, not less than 20-pound weight.
• Have a clean margin of at least one half inch on the top, bottom, and each side.
• Contain a 3 x 5 inch blank area on the top right corner.
• Be printed, typed, or written in black ink. 
• Be accompanied by correct payment by check or cash. 
• No permanently bound or continuous forms. 
• No attachments stapled or taped to any pages.

  55 ILCS 55/3-5018

In addition, documents presented for recording in the State of Illinois must include the following within the text of the document:

• The complete name and address of the preparer. 55 ILCS 5/3-5022. 
• The complete name and address of where to return the document. 55 ILCS 5/3-5020.5(1)

Additional requirements for deeds:

• Must also have a complete name and address of where the tax bill is to be sent. 55 ILCS 5/3-5020(a). 
• Must contain the name(s) and address(es) of grantee or grantees. 55 ILCS 5/3-5026. 
• Must contain a signed and dated State of Illinois PTAX declaration form or letter of exemption. 35 ILCCS 200/31-20. 
• In Cook County, deeds and assignments of beneficial interest in a land trust must be accompanied by sworn statements from the grantor and grantee. 55 ILCS 5/3-5020(b).

Additional requirements for Assignments and Releases:

• Must contain an associated document number. 55 ILCS 5/3-5020.5 (2) and (3).

Copies:

• Recorders may accept copies of original documents only if the recorder’s office labels the signature as a copy. 55 ILCS 5/3-5013.

Predatory Lending Certificates:

• In Cook, Kane, Peoria, and Will Counties, mortgages on residential property sent for recording must be accompanied by a predatory lending certificate to be recorded. 765 ILCS 77/70(g).

If you have questions on any of these requirements, please contact the Underwriting Department at legal@atgf.com, 217.403.0020, or 312.752.1990.