Land records · Parcel maps · October 5, 2026
What Is a Deed of Reconveyance? Paid-Off Loans
What is a deed of reconveyance? The recorded document that clears a deed of trust after a loan is paid off. Who files it, timing, and fixes if missing.
What is a deed of reconveyance? It is the document that releases a deed of trust from a property’s title after the loan it secured has been paid off. In states that use deeds of trust, a trustee technically holds legal title as security for the lender. When the loan is paid, the trustee “reconveys” that title back to the borrower by signing and recording a reconveyance. Without it, the old loan still looks open in the public records. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
Deed of trust basics
A deed of trust involves three parties: the borrower (trustor), the lender (beneficiary), and a neutral trustee. The trustee’s role is to sell the property if the borrower defaults, or to reconvey title when the loan is paid. In mortgage states, the equivalent paid-off document is usually called a satisfaction or release of mortgage.
How reconveyance usually works
- You pay off the loan, through a sale, refinance, or final payment.
- The lender confirms payoff and sends a request for reconveyance to the trustee.
- The trustee signs the deed of reconveyance.
- It is recorded with the county recorder.
- You receive a copy, often by mail, sometimes weeks later.
Many states set deadlines for lenders and trustees to complete this, and some impose penalties for delays. Deadlines vary.
Why it matters
If the reconveyance is never recorded, the deed of trust remains as an open lien on the title. That can surface years later as a cloud on title when you try to sell or refinance, holding up closing until it is fixed.
How to check if yours was recorded
- Search the county recorder’s index under your name for a reconveyance after your payoff date.
- Look for the instrument number of the original deed of trust referenced in the reconveyance.
- Request a copy from the recorder if needed.
Allow some time after payoff before worrying, but if months pass with nothing recorded, follow up.
What to do if it is missing
- Contact the lender or loan servicer with your payoff letter and ask them to request reconveyance.
- If the lender has merged or closed, find the successor; title companies are experienced at this.
- Contact the trustee named in the deed of trust.
- Use state procedures. Some states allow a title company or other party to record a release when the lender fails to act, after notice.
- Consult an attorney if those steps fail.
Reconveyance vs other documents
| Document | Used with | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Deed of reconveyance | Deed of trust | Returns title after payoff |
| Satisfaction of mortgage | Mortgage | Shows mortgage paid in full |
| Release of lien | Various liens | Removes a lien from record |
| Partial reconveyance | Deed of trust | Releases part of the land, such as one lot |
Bottom line
A deed of reconveyance is the trustee’s recorded release of a deed of trust after the loan is paid. Confirm it was recorded after any payoff, because a missing reconveyance leaves an open lien on your record. Follow up with the servicer or trustee if it does not appear, and check your county’s records via the Platbookmapper map.
What is a deed of reconveyance FAQ
Who files a deed of reconveyance?
The trustee named in the deed of trust signs it, usually at the lender’s request, and it is recorded with the county.
How long does reconveyance take?
Many states set deadlines for lenders and trustees, often within weeks or a few months of payoff. Check your state.
What happens if a reconveyance is never recorded?
The old deed of trust remains on the record and can delay a sale or refinance until it is cleared.
Is a deed of reconveyance the same as a satisfaction of mortgage?
They serve the same purpose. Reconveyance is used with deeds of trust; satisfaction is used with mortgages.
How do I get a copy of my reconveyance?
Search the county recorder’s records under your name or request a copy from the recorder.