After paying off your mortgage, it’s crucial to verify the lien’s removal from your property title to ensure clear ownership. Your lender should send a “Satisfaction of Mortgage” or “Release of Lien.” If not received within 30-90 days, search your county’s public records or get a title search. If the lien persists, contact your lender, or refer to resources like confirm your mortgage lender no longer holds a lien on your property for guidance on resolving unreleased liens, potentially involving legal action.
What Is a Mortgage Lien?
Let’s start with the basics.
A mortgage lien is a legal claim your lender places on your property as security for the loan. It gives the lender the right to take legal action—like foreclosure—if you default on payments.
When your loan is fully paid off, the lien should be formally removed through a legal document, usually called a:
- Satisfaction of Mortgage
- Release of Lien
- Discharge of Mortgage (varies by state)
Important: The lien does not automatically disappear once your loan is paid. A formal release must be filed in public property records.
Why It’s Important to Confirm Lien Removal
Failing to verify lien release can lead to real problems down the line. Here’s what could happen if the lien remains:
Potential Issues:
- Delays in selling or refinancing the home
- Title defects that discourage buyers or lenders
- Legal expenses to resolve ownership disputes
- Errors in title insurance affecting your financial protection
Bottom line: Your property title must be clear of liens for you to have full legal ownership.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check If the Lien Was Removed
Let’s walk through exactly what to do after making your final mortgage payment.
Step 1: Wait for the Lender to Send a Lien Release
Once your mortgage is paid in full, your lender should generate and send a Satisfaction of Mortgage or Release of Lien document.
How long does it take?
Most states give lenders 30–90 days to file this release with your county’s public records office.
What to expect:
- A physical letter or PDF copy showing your loan is paid off
- Instructions or a confirmation of release filing
Pro Tip: Keep this document in a safe place. You may need it if problems arise later.
Step 2: Search Your County Property Records
The lien release is filed at your County Recorder’s Office (sometimes called Register of Deeds or Clerk of Courts). Here’s how to check:
Steps:
- Visit your local recorder’s website or office
- Search using:
- Your full name
- The property address
- The parcel or lot number (if known)
- Look for a document titled:
- “Satisfaction of Mortgage”
- “Release of Lien”
- “Discharge of Mortgage”
📎 Note: Some counties offer free searches online; others may charge a small fee or require an in-person visit.
Step 3: Get a Title Search
A title search reveals everything tied to your property, including liens, judgments, or ownership history.
Two ways to order:
- Through a title company
- With help from a real estate attorney
💵 Cost: Usually $100 to $250 depending on the location and complexity
✅ Recommended if:
- You plan to refinance, sell, or transfer the home soon
- You suspect the lien has not been properly removed
Step 4: Contact Your Title Insurance Provider
If you used title insurance during your home purchase, you can contact the insurer for help:
- Ask them to verify lien release
- Request documentation or assistance with errors
- Get advice on next steps if issues are found
Step 5: Contact the Lender If the Lien Isn’t Released
If you don’t find a release document in the public records:
Do this:
- Call your lender’s loan servicing department
- Ask for a copy of the lien release
- Request the recording reference number and county filing confirmation
- Get everything in writing
Keep all emails and call logs as proof in case legal steps are needed.
What If the Lender Didn’t File the Lien Release?
Sometimes, the lender fails to record the lien release, especially if:
- The company merged or went out of business
- A loan servicer changed hands
- Filing errors occurred
How to Fix It:
- Send a written request demanding they file the lien release
- If no response, file a complaint with:
- Your state’s consumer protection office
- The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov
- Hire a real estate attorney to file a court petition to remove the lien (can cost $500–$2,000)
Real-Life Example
Lisa paid off her $180,000 mortgage in February 2023. By August, she still hadn’t received a lien release. She:
- Searched county records — no lien release found
- Contacted her lender — no response
- Hired a title company — confirmed lien still active
- Filed a complaint with the CFPB — resolution within 3 weeks
Lesson: Even when you’ve done everything right, proactive follow-up is often required.
Final Thoughts
Paying off your mortgage feels like crossing the finish line—but removing the lien is what gets you the trophy.