How to Locate and Identify Assets Held in Different Counties or States
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.
Detailed Answer
When you need to find assets owned by an individual or business across Kansas counties or other states, you should combine public-record searches, statutory databases, and professional tools. Below are the main steps:
1. Search County Recorder and Register of Deeds Records
In Kansas, real property transfers and liens appear at county levels. Visit each county’s Register of Deeds office (often online). Search by name to uncover deeds, mortgages, and liens. For example, Sedgwick County provides an online portal at sedgwickcounty.org/recording.
2. Review Secretary of State Records
The Kansas Secretary of State maintains business entities, UCC financing statements, and trademarks. To locate personal property liens or corporate assets, use the UCC search tool at sos.ks.gov/business/UCCSearch. Under K.S.A. 84-9-501, you can identify financing statements and lien holders.
3. Check Motor Vehicle and Vessel Records
For vehicles, boats, and trailers, the Kansas Department of Revenue’s Division of Vehicles issues titles. Request a title history to uncover liens or multiple registrations. Out-of-state titles often appear as liens recorded under Kansas law at local county treasurers.
4. Access Tax Assessor and Treasurer Records
County Tax Assessors list taxable real and personal property. County Treasurers list delinquent tax liens. Reviewing these can reveal overlooked properties or lien claims. Each county’s assessor website typically includes a public search feature.
5. Use Court Filings and Judgment Searches
Kansas district courts maintain civil judgment records. A judgment may include asset disclosures governed by K.S.A. 60-231, which compels judgment debtors to answer questions about their assets. Visit the Kansas Courts eCourt Public Portal at kscourts.org/Public.
6. Leverage Credit and Asset-Search Services
Professional asset-search companies aggregate public records, social media, and proprietary data. These services streamline multi-county or multi-state searches. Ensure compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act if using consumer reports.
7. Cross-Reference Federal Databases
If the subject has federal liens (e.g., IRS or U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development), search the Federal Tax Lien Index or HUD’s Section 235 database. Such liens may attach to real property in any county.
Helpful Hints
- Keep accurate name spellings and aliases to avoid missed records.
- Note filing dates to distinguish current assets from released liens.
- Check neighboring states’ UCC and property databases if cross-border assets are likely.
- Use GIS mapping tools available on many county assessor sites for parcel visualization.
- Request certified copies of critical documents to verify authenticity.
- Consult an attorney when liens or concealed assets complicate your search.