Recording a Claim of Lien in Madison County, IL is done a bit differently than other states as well as neighboring counties.

Recording fees are $38.00 for the first 4 pages, and $1.00 per page starting with page 5. They do accept 8-1/2 x 14 legal sized documents for an increased fee of $50.00 for the first 4 pages, and $1.00 per page starting with page 5.

Madison County requires the street address of the property, the Permanent Index Number (PIN,) as well as the complete property description from the deed. Unfortunately, the deed is not visible on their website. Descriptions such as “INGLESYDE LOT 25 40X120” (which can be found on the website) are Maps and Plats, not the full legal property description.

Since the deed is not visible on the website, it is a common practice in this county to request the first page of the deed to be copied and added to the Claim of Lien. Here is what you’ll need to do: Call the County Recorder to get the Document ID number for the most recent deed. Note your request on your cover sheet (e.g. Please copy 1st page of the Quick Claim Deed # 2010R42632 and add to this lien.) Be sure to include an extra $1.00 fee for the photocopy.

Liens are usually recorded within 5-10 days of receipt, and the entire lien document will be visible on their website within 1-2 business days. The county keeps the original document and do not do conformed copies. However, if you include a copy of the lien and a self-addresses-stamped-envelope, they will attach a receipt and mail the copy back to you the same day the lien is recorded.

Since a copy of the Recorded Lien must be delivered to the Property Owner within 10 days of recording, be sure to watch their website. As soon as it posts, you can print and mail it to the Owner.