1. Gather Debtor Information
The most critical step in a UCC search is identifying the debtor's exact legal name. Under Revised Article 9, a search under a trade name or a slightly misspelled legal name may fail to disclose a "perfected" lien.
- For Individuals: Use the name as it appears on their unexpired driver's license.
- For Registered Organizations: Use the name exactly as stated in the public organic record (Articles of Incorporation).
2. Choose the Filing Office
UCC filings are generally categorized into two types of offices: Central and Local. Knowing where to search depends on the debtor's location and the type of collateral.
Central Filing (SOS)
Most searches occur at the Secretary of State level in the jurisdiction where the debtor is located (incorporated).
Local Filing (County)
Real estate-related filings (fixtures, timber, minerals) are often filed at the local county recorder's office.
3. Certified vs. Non-Certified Searches
State portals typically offer two levels of search results. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs for legal evidence.
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Certified Search
A formal document issued by the Secretary of State. It is admissible in court and provides a "snapshot" of all active filings as of a specific certification date.
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Non-Certified (Informational)
An online data dump or unverified report. Useful for quick due diligence but lacks the legal weight of a certified document.
4. How to Read a Search Report
Once you receive the report, you must analyze the "chain" of filings. A single lien may have multiple associated records.