Texas Law Requires New Disclosures for Property Transfers

Texas is creating a new form to track property transfers across our state. Starting January 1, 2026, anyone buying or selling property must fill out a notice form with details about the transaction. The new rule applies to instruments filed for recording on or after that date. The form was designed to collect important information about who is buying and selling property in Texas. The notice form must include names, addresses, phone numbers, and tax identification numbers for both the seller and the buyer. People must also state their citizenship status on the form. The form asks for the property address and description, the date the property deed was signed, which county it was signed in, and information about any liens on the property. The purchase price and taxes paid must be listed when they apply. County clerks will store these notice forms separately from regular property records. The forms are confidential and protected from public disclosure under Texas law. However, state agencies can request and access these forms for government purposes. Any information obtained by state agencies is also kept confidential and can only be used for official government work. The Commissioner of the General Land Office must create the official form by December 31, 2025. Both the seller and buyer must sign the form under oath or as a legal declaration. The new requirements take effect after the 2025 legislative session ends, giving the state time to prepare forms and train county staff before January 2026.