Register of Deeds

Fraud Notify

Fraud Notify is an online subscription service offered to the public that allows them to have their name monitored with the Kent County Register of Deeds office in order to track possible fraudulent recordings that affects their property.

The threat of mortgage fraud and identity theft crimes continue to rise, and all too often victims of these types of fraudulent activities are unaware their homes or identity have been stolen. While Fraud Notify does not prevent fraud from happening, it provides an early warning system for property owners to take appropriate actions should they determine possible fraudulent activity has taken place.

With Fraud Notify, subscribers will be notified via email when the name they have submitted is used in any recording activities in the Register of Deeds office. The best protection against property fraud is being proactive. This service is free and easy to sign up for and offers a little extra piece of mind with just a few clicks!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Fraud Notify?

  Fraud Notify is a free notification service that alerts subscribers via email each time a document is recorded with their name on it in the Kent County Register of Deeds office.

• How much does it cost?

  This service is provided by your Kent County Register of Deeds office and there is no cost for you to use the service.

• How many subscription names can I enter?

  You may enter as many personal, business, and trust names as necessary. You may also monitor multiple names and use the same e-mail address for each.

• My first name is often spelled many ways; how should I enter it?

  It is recommended that you enter only the first two letter of your first name in the first name field. For example, with a name such as Steve, Stephen, or Steven, you may wish to enter the letters "ST" in the first name field. Or you may wish to enter the first few letters of your first name to limit the number of first name matches. For example, if the letters "St" are entered, a name match may result for the names Steven, Stan, Stacy, Sterling, etc.

• My last name is very common; will I receive notification alerts that could possibly belong to someone else?

  It is very possible to receive an alert that may actually pertain to another individual with the same last name (and first name) as you.

• What if my name or my email address changes? How do I update my subscription with this new information?

  You may subscribe again using your new e-mail address.

• How long does my name remain on the Fraud Notify notification list?

  Your subscription will remain active indefinitely as long as the Register of Deeds office participates in this program.

• What information is provided on a Fraud Notify alert notification?

  The alert notification will contain the following information: Document Number, Document Type, Recorded Date, and the matched Party Name. Along with a link to the Kent County Register of Deeds online Self Service Web portal.

• What should I do if I need to change the information on the deed to my property?

  Individuals interested in changing the ownership properties listed on their deed should consider one of the following options:

  • Contact an Attorney familiar with Real Property Law in the State of Michigan
  • Contact a local title company
  • Acquire and complete a blank deed to have recorded at the Register of Deeds Office. Suggested places to find blank deeds are office supply stores. Blank deeds found online may or may not conform to recording requirements.
  • The Register of Deeds office does not supply blank deeds or offer advice on the preparation of deeds.
• What if I have more questions about Fraud Notify?

  Please contact the Kent County Register of Deeds office at 616-632-7610 for additional questions.