Deeds & recording · 5 statesDeed signing and recording requirements: witnesses, notary, preparer and format by state

Each state sets its own rules for signing a deed and getting it recorded. Alabama: signed at the foot and attested by one witness, or two if the grantor signs by mark; the probate judge won't record it without the preparer's name and address (Ala. Code §§35-4-20, 35-4-110). Arizona: in writing, signed by the grantor and acknowledged before an authorized officer; the county recorder may reject a document without a caption or original signatures, larger than 8½ by 14 inches or in type under 10 points, and the first page needs a two-inch top margin (A.R.S. §§33-401, 11-480). Florida: signed in the presence of two subscribing witnesses, and recorded with the printed names and addresses of signers, witnesses and preparer and the grantee's address (Fla. Stat. §§689.01, 695.26). Kentucky: full names and mailing addresses of the parties, the full consideration with a sworn consideration certificate, the tax-bill address and the preparer's signed name and address (KRS 382.135, 382.335). Missouri: signed and acknowledged, stating each signer's marital status, with a three-inch top margin on page one and other format standards, or an extra $25 to record a non-conforming document (RSMo 442.130, 59.310).