Deed Recording Requirements in Michigan
Michigan deeds must be acknowledged before a notary or other authorized officer to be recorded, and both a state real estate transfer tax and a county transfer tax apply unless an exemption fits.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
Michigan at a glance
- Notary acknowledgment
- Required to record
- Witnesses
- None
- Transfer tax
- State tax applies
- Exemptions may apply
The rules in Michigan
Does a deed need to be notarized in Michigan?
Michigan requires a deed to be acknowledged (or, where the statute allows, proved) before it can be recorded.
How many witnesses does a deed need in Michigan?
None. Michigan does not require witnesses to sign a deed.
Is there a real estate transfer tax in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan charges a state transfer tax or similar fee when a deed is recorded. Some transfers may be exempt, so check the current statute.
Where do the Michigan rules for deeds come from?
They come from MCL 565.47, Recording; acknowledgment required, MCL 565.8, Deeds; acknowledgment, MCL 207.525, State real estate transfer tax rate and 2 other sources. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How Michigan compares
Michigan is one of 35 jurisdictions that charge a state transfer tax or deed fee.
What this means in practice
Record the signed deed with the county recorder, register of deeds or land records office where the property is located. Recording puts the world on notice of the transfer and generally protects the new owner against later claims.
Recording offices often have formatting rules (margins, paper size, a return address, a parcel number) and charge a fee. Check the county's requirements before you sign.
A deed does not pay off a mortgage. If the property is mortgaged, the loan usually stays in place after the transfer.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.