How to Locate and Identify Assets Held Across Counties or States

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

1. Define Your Asset Search Goals

Begin by listing the types of assets you need to find—real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, business interests or intangible property. Clarify timeframes and jurisdictions to narrow your search to specific counties or other states.

2. Search Real Property Records

Maryland records real estate transactions at the county level. Visit the Register of Wills or Clerk’s Office in each county to access deeds and mortgages. Many counties offer online portals with searchable grantor/grantee indexes. See Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-108 for recording requirements: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=RP&section=3-108.

3. Review UCC Financing Statements

Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings reveal secured creditors’ interests in personal property. Search the Maryland UCC index maintained by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). You can conduct a free online search of financing statements. Key authority: Md. Code Ann., Com. Law § 9-501: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=CL&section=9-501.

4. Check Motor Vehicle and Vessel Titles

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) issues titles for cars, boats and motorcycles. Submit a request for records at select branches or through MVA’s online requests portal. Out-of-state vehicles often require contacting the corresponding state DMV for title history.

5. Investigate Financial Accounts

Banks and credit unions must protect customer privacy. You may need a subpoena or court order to obtain account details. In probate matters, a personal representative uses statutory authority to collect decedent assets under Md. Code Ann., Est. & Trusts § 7-104: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ET&section=7-104.

6. Search Business Filings and Ownership Records

SDAT’s business search lists corporations, LLCs and partnerships. Review annual reports to identify officers and addresses. For out-of-state companies operating in Maryland, check whether they filed as foreign entities.

7. Identify Trusts, Life Insurance and Retirement Accounts

Trusts and beneficiary-designated assets often avoid probate. Request statements or certificates directly from trustees, insurance companies or plan administrators. Provide proof of interest or court authorization if needed.

8. Use Professional Services

Private investigators, forensic accountants and title search firms have expertise and database access. They can expedite multi-jurisdictional searches and uncover less-obvious assets.

Helpful Hints

• Document Your Steps: Keep records of searches, dates, and fees paid.
• Verify Public Portals: Some counties still require in-person visits.
• Combine Data Sources: Cross-reference property, UCC and business filings.
• Maintain Privacy Compliance: Obtain court orders before accessing protected records.
• Consult a Maryland Attorney: For subpoenas or inter-jurisdictional discovery.