Where to Find My Settlement Statement?

If you’re wondering “Where can I find my settlement statement?”, the good news is that there are several reliable sources to obtain this essential document. A settlement statement, also known as a closing disclosure in modern real estate transactions, provides a detailed breakdown of all costs and credits associated with the deal. Whether you’re a buyer or seller, this document is typically provided by the settlement agent, title company, or lender. It’s important to keep this document for your records as it can be useful for tax purposes or future reference.

The settlement statement is usually given to you before or at the time of closing. For buyers, it outlines costs like loan origination fees, property taxes, and homeowners insurance. For sellers, it includes details such as the final sale price, real estate commissions, and any outstanding taxes. If you’ve misplaced your copy or need to retrieve it from a past transaction, here’s where you can look.

Who Provides the Settlement Statement?

1. Settlement Agent or Title Company
   The most direct way to obtain your settlement statement is by contacting the title company or settlement agent who facilitated the transaction. They are responsible for preparing and distributing the document at closing.
2. Lender
   If you financed your property purchase with a mortgage, your lender should have provided a closing disclosure (the modern equivalent of a settlement statement) at least three business days before closing. Reach out to them if you need another copy.
3. Real Estate Agent
   Your real estate agent or broker may also have retained copies of the settlement documents for their records. They can often help you locate what you need.
4. Attorney
   If an attorney was involved in your transaction (common in some states), they may have prepared or kept copies of the settlement statement as part of their services.
5. Seller (or Buyer)
   In some cases, contacting the other party involved in the transaction (buyer or seller) might help if they still have their copy of the document.
6. County Records Office
   Some counties maintain records of real estate transactions that include financial details like those found in a settlement statement. Check with your local recorder’s office for availability.

What If I Can’t Find My Settlement Statement?

If none of these sources can provide your settlement statement, here are some additional steps you can take:

• Reconstructing Records: Use bank statements, emails, property tax bills, or other documentation related to the transaction to estimate amounts.
• Contacting Previous Lenders: If you’ve refinanced or changed lenders since purchasing the property, reach out to them for any archived documents.
• Title Insurance Company: The company that issued your title insurance policy might also have retained copies of settlement-related documents.

Why Is the Settlement Statement Important?

The settlement statement serves several purposes:

• Financial Transparency: It provides an itemized list of all costs and credits involved in the transaction so both parties know exactly where their money is going.
• Tax Records: It can be used to calculate deductions like property taxes or mortgage interest when filing taxes.
• Proof of Transaction: It acts as an official record of the financial terms agreed upon during the sale or refinance.

FAQs