How to Find UCC Filings
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, security interests, and lien searches.
Where to Find UCC Filings
State UCC Search Portals
Each state's Secretary of State maintains a UCC search portal. Some are free, some charge fees.
International Association of Commercial Administrators provides links to state UCC offices.
County Recorder Offices
Some UCC filings are recorded at the county level, especially real estate-related security interests.
Commercial Search Services
Services like LexisNexis or Westlaw offer aggregated UCC searches across states for a fee.
Step-by-Step: Searching UCC Records
- Identify the debtor name — use the exact legal name as it appears on incorporation documents
- Determine which state(s) to search — start with the state where the debtor is incorporated
- Search the state's UCC database by debtor name
- Review all active UCC-1 filings — note the secured party, filing date, and collateral description
- Check for continuations — UCC-1 filings expire after 5 years unless a continuation is filed
- Search additional states where the debtor has assets or does business
- Save copies of all filings with the file number and date
FAQ
What is a UCC-1 filing?
A UCC-1 financing statement is a public record filed by a secured party (usually a lender) to claim a security interest in a debtor's collateral. It gives public notice that the secured party has a priority claim to the described assets.
Why do UCC filings matter in fraud cases?
UCC filings reveal debt obligations, security interests, and creditor relationships. They can show hidden liens, undisclosed encumbrances, or patterns of asset-based lending that may be relevant to fraud analysis.
How long is a UCC-1 filing valid?
A UCC-1 filing is valid for 5 years from the filing date. The secured party must file a continuation statement within 6 months before expiration to extend it for another 5 years.
Are UCC filings free to search?
Some states offer free UCC searches, while others charge fees. The availability and cost vary by state. Check the state's Secretary of State website for their specific policies.
What is a UCC-3 termination?
A UCC-3 termination statement is filed when the debt is paid off or the security interest is released. It removes the UCC-1 from the public record, clearing the encumbrance on the collateral.