Recorder FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Recorder
Does the Recorder's Office assist with divorces/annulments?
For divorces and annulments, please contact the Clerk of Court located on the fourth floor of the Pottawattamie County Courthouse at 227 S 6th St. Council Bluffs, IA 51501. You can call them at (712) 328-5604.
Does the Recorder's Office assist with adoptions?
For information about adoption, please contact the Iowa Department of Public Health at (515) 281-6263 or (515) 281-4944.
How can I legally change my name if not related to a marriage or a Paternity Affidavit Form?
Please contact the Clerk of District Court located on the fourth floor of the Pottawattamie County Courthouse at 227 S 6th St. Council Bluffs, IA 51501. You can call them at (712) 328-5604.
How can I make changes to my child's birth certificate, such as adding their father or changing their last name?
A Paternity Affidavit Form can be obtained in the Pottawattamie County Recorder’s Office. Both biological parents must agree in order to use this form.
How do I get a divorce or annulment?
Divorces and annulments are handled through the Clerk of Court. They can be reached at 712-328-5604.
Forms and more information is available at www.iowacourts.gov.
Real Estate
How much are the recording fees?
Please visit our Recording Fees page for a list of fees.
How much for Transfer Tax?
Please see our Transfer Tax Calculator.
How do I change the title of my property?
A new deed must be prepared by a Real Estate Attorney or an Iowa Title Company. We only record documents, we do not provide these forms.
What are the other forms that may be needed to be with a transferring document?
Declaration of Value and a Groundwater Hazard Statement may be needed. You can find these forms on our website.
Is there a survey filed on my property?
Please contact our office, and we will be happy to look it up for you.
How do I electronically file my new recordings documents?
Please visit the Iowa Land Records website.
How do I get a copy of my deed to my property?
Please use our website. You can search for your name. If you need assistance, please contact our office at (712) 328-5612.
Can I mail in a new recording for recording?
Yes, you can mail in a new recording with a recording payment.
Passports
Can I mail in my application or apply online for a passport?
You cannot mail in Form DS-11. Additionally, the Department of State does not have the option to submit your passport application.
Do I have to make an appointment to apply for a passport?
Yes appointment needed.
Will I receive my new passport and my documents back in one envelope?
You may receive your newly issued passport and your citizenship documents in two separate mailings. Please contact the National Passport Information Center if you do not receive a second mailing within 10 business days of receiving the first.
Can I get my passport picture taken?
Passport photos are available for $15.00 a person.
If you have an appointment time is built in to take a photo if needed.
Just need a photo? You can stop by anytime from 8am - 3:30pm to have a picture taken. Pictures will be taken on a first-come, first serve basis..
For an individual wanting a passport for the first time, can I mail in my application or apply online for a passport?
You cannot mail in Form DS-11. Additionally, the Department of State does not have the option to submit your passport application. You have to go to a Passport Acceptance Facility. They also have to give you the oath.
How long does it take to receive my passport?
6-9 weeks, depending on the U.S. Department of State and their volume.
Can a copy of my birth certificate work?
No, we will need the State Certified Birth Certificate with the Seal.
Do I need to bring in my own picture?
No, we can provide a passport photo at our office.
When are you open?
Monday to Friday from 8 am to 3:30 pm.
Do I have to bring in my children or can I just bring their picture?
You will need to have all parties present at the time of application as they have to take the oath, and we have to verify who they are.
Fax: (712) 328-4738
8:00am to 3:30pm
Real Estate Filings, Marriage Applications, Passports
8:00am to 4:00pm
Boat, Snowmobile, ATV, Birth, Death & Marriage Records
Second Floor
227 S 6th St
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
