What’s in a Name? Why the Statement of Information Matters

In a real estate transaction, names matter—a lot. When a title company begins the process of verifying clear ownership, they must sift through countless public records. That’s where a Statement of Information comes in. This document plays a vital role in helping the title company distinguish you from others who might share your name—and from potential legal entanglements that don’t belong to you.

What Is a Statement of Information?

A Statement of Information is a confidential form requested from the buyer, seller, and borrower in transactions involving title insurance. It provides essential details that allow the title company to correctly match public records to the correct individuals involved in the transaction.

Why Is It Important?

Every day, documents like liens, judgments, bankruptcies, and divorce decrees are recorded using individuals’ names. If your name—or a variation of it—shows up on any of these documents, the title company must determine if those records apply to you.

Without accurate information, they may assume that a recorded judgment or lien is tied to your property—even if it actually belongs to someone else with the same name. This can result in delays, complications, or even a failed closing.

A properly completed Statement of Information helps eliminate that risk. It enables the title company to clear unrelated issues from your file so they can issue your title policy without unnecessary exceptions.

What Information Does It Include?

Although the Statement of Information does request personal details, it only asks for what’s necessary to distinguish you from others with similar names. You (and your spouse, if applicable) may be asked to provide:

Full legal name

Social Security number

Year and place of birth

Citizenship status

Date and place of marriage or registered domestic partnership

Residence and employment history

Information about previous marriages or partnerships

Is My Information Confidential?

Yes. The information you provide is used exclusively by the title company and is treated as strictly confidential. It will not be shared or used for any purpose outside the scope of title clearance.

What If I Don’t Provide One?

If you fail to complete a Statement of Information, the title company may not be able to distinguish you from individuals with problematic records. This can lead to:

Delays in closing

Additional exceptions listed on the title policy

Lender refusal to fund the loan

Potential cancellation of the transaction

In short, your cooperation is crucial for a smooth and timely closing.

Conclusion: Clarity Brings Confidence

A Statement of Information may feel like just another form, but it plays a critical role in protecting your property rights and ensuring the title to your new home is clean. By completing it accurately and promptly, you help the title company do its job effectively—ensuring peace of mind for everyone involved in the transaction.