Powered by our Web-based iLien product, Lien Solutions provides complete nationwide searching services for loan- and lease-related documentation activities. You can search online for the documents you need, or you can order documents and certified searches through our manual offerings.
We’re able to connect you to corporate and Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) public records from every state and thousands of counties. We support both one-time and recurring searches, and enable you to create and manage search packages, as well as to perform multi-jurisdictional searches.
Know before you lend
Simplify complexity
The ability to conduct fast, accurate public record searches and document retrieval has never been more essential to the due diligence process. When multiple jurisdictions are involved, Lien Solutions’ broad reach and deep jurisdictional expertise becomes invaluable. With our nationwide database and network of more than 40 offices and 4,000 correspondents across the country, we have access to the most current data.
The right fit for your workflow
Lien Solutions is here to support your search needs in the way that makes the most sense for your organization. iLien has turned decades of expertise into a flexible Web-based product as well as integrations that can seamlessly provide our capabilities within your own systems. Your searches are powered by cutting-edge technology with no need to purchase software or deal with time-consuming upgrades. Access is easy, sharing is secure, and your resources are maximized.
The benefits of having a responsive, expert partner
Public record searches and document retrievals can be placed through iLien or via phone, fax, or client/server software. And our nationwide teams of jurisdictional experts are at your service whenever you want help with searches or special projects.
UCC lien
A UCC lien search reveals any individuals or entities that have a filed UCC financing statement against a business, property, or assets that are pledged as collateral on a loan or lease.
Corporate charter
The basic charter of a corporation spells out the name, basic purpose, incorporators, amount and types of stock which may be issued, and any special characteristics such as being non-profit.
Bankruptcy records
A search to see if a legal proceeding involving a person or business that is unable to repay outstanding debts has been filed at the Bankruptcy courts.
Federal tax liens
The IRS may take priority over loans made in revolving lines of credit. They can file on any name past or present used to file taxes. Knowing if federal liens exist is essential.
Judgment liens
Judgment liens are not consensual, and they can be filed without the debtor's knowledge of their existence. Thus, it is not enough to ask the debtor about tax and judgment liens. Creditors must be diligent in discovering their existence themselves.
State tax liens
States can file liens for unpaid payroll or state taxes, unpaid fines or fees, and judgment search liens. Although each state's taxation laws are different, most require that a public notice be filed to document the existence of a state tax lien.
Litigation records
A search is performed to uncover if a business or individual is involved in an outstanding lawsuit. These open court actions also threaten to encumber property being pledged as collateral or seriously impact a debtor’s solvency.
Delaware business entity search
A search of the Delaware business entity database to see what businesses are registered. Business entity search can be done for all 50 states.
Real property
A comprehensive search performed at the county level to uncover the current owner, property taxes, mortgages, and any liens that may encumber the property. Chain of title, grantor/grantee search, tax assessor search, and many other types of real property searches are available.
Lien Solutions Public Records Search FAQ
Performing a public records search is a critical part of lending, leasing, and legal processes, especially for due diligence. These searches help lenders, investors, and attorneys evaluate risk related to borrowers and their collateral.
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What is a Public Records Search?A public records search is a comprehensive investigation of public documents that are maintained by government agencies — such as UCC filings and searches, UCC lien searches, UCC-1 searches, UCC filings lookup, and state-level UCC searches — to gather vital details about a business or individual. Public record searches and secured transaction searches are critical for risk assessment, legal name verification, and understanding any additional debtors, additional jurisdictions in which to search, secured parties or outstanding liens that may affect a transaction. These searches often include information on real property, tax liens, litigation actions, bankruptcy, and more to ensure a thorough due diligence search.
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Why is a Public Records Search important for due diligence?A public records search is a critical part of any due diligence process for lenders, financial institutions and other business entities. It helps confirm identities, verify business status and legal names, identify liens or judgments, and assess financial or legal risks before transactions. This search uncovers priority liens, including federal and state tax liens, judgment liens, and UCC filings, as well as claims that may affect lien priority in bankruptcy or collections. By revealing hidden liabilities that could impact property value or threaten collateral, these searches help mitigate financial loss and ensure perfection of security interests.
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What Information can be found through a Public Records Search?Public records searches cover a broad range of searches. Common searches include UCC lien search, UCC search by state, UCC document retrieval, UCC filings and searches, UCC-1 searches, UCC eFilings, federal and state tax liens, judgment liens, bankruptcy and litigation records, real property data, legal name verification, and more. Most searches can be conducted across multiple jurisdictions, but availability and turnaround times depend on state or local regulations.
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How can I access public records?Public records can be accessed by visiting government offices or official websites, using online databases provided by county, state or federal agencies, or working with professional search services for comprehensive coverage.
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When should you perform a Public Records Search?A public records search should be performed before lending or extending credit, during mergers or acquisitions, prior to property purchases or leases, and when evaluating potential litigation risks. While they are generally reliable, they may not always reflect the most recent changes, so regular updates and verification are recommended for accuracy.
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How can I simplify the Public Records Search process?Public records search processes can be streamlined through the use of online UCC search services, automation platforms, and integration with internal systems.
Using a solution provider, like Wolters Kluwer, offers significant advantages because they streamline searches across multiple jurisdictions, ensure accuracy through advanced tools and expertise, reduce risk with automated monitoring, and provide convenient access to digital documents. They also offer expert guidance for complex searches and compliance requirements, saving time and improving efficiency.
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Work with a trusted partner
Lien Solutions Professional Services
Lien Solutions Professional Services offers iLien API integration for seamless transfer of data between iLien and your system. Save time, prevent keying errors, and file and search faster with integration. Our Professional Services offers customized reporting, name change services, bulk filing, and more.