Declaration of Homestead

Homestead protection laws exist to protect your home against most creditors, up to the value of homestead exemption.  California homestead law is complex and technical in nature. A Declaration of Homestead, when not properly prepared, may be invalid. We recommend that you seek legal advice before considering the recording of a Declaration of Homestead. 

Information and forms are available from the Sacramento ​County Public Law Library​. Blank forms may also be available at office supply stores. 

Requirements

Although we cannot give legal advice, we can provide you with the requirements that make Declaration of Homestead acceptable for recording.

When a Declaration of Homestead is presented for recording, we will look for the following information

  • ​Name of owner(s)/declarant(s)
  • Statement declaring the homestead
  • Description of the property (must be located in Sacramento County)
  • For example, a complete street address including city and state is acceptable
  • Statement that the facts are known to be true
  • Signature of owner(s)/declarant(s)/authorized agent
  • Signature(s) acknowledged by a notary public

Record In-Person

To record in person, visit our main office at:​

3636 American River Drive, Suite 110​
Sacramento, CA 95864

Documents presented by 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) are recorded the same-day. 

Record By Mail

Mail your documents, along with a check or money order payable to the "Sacramento County Clerk/Recorder," to:

Sacramento County Recorder
P.O. Box 839
​Sacramento, CA 95812-0839

Fees

Recording fees are available from the online fee​ schedule