Frequently Asked Questions
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Birth Records Death Records Marriage Records Marriage License Document Formatting Standards Military Records Property Search Recording of Documents Transfer Tax Calculator Recorder Forms Hunting & Fishing Licenses Recreational Vehicles Passports FAQ Department HomeCan a marriage license be applied for in Tama County if the marriage ceremony is to take place in a different county?
Yes, the license is valid in any county in the state of Iowa. It is not valid outside of Iowa. The marriage license must be returned to the same county you applied in.
Can we change our names through marriage?
Yes. In fact, a marriage provides the opportunity to legally change your name. Because of this, it is important to complete the application correctly and in full. Do not use initials or nicknames unless you wish them to become your legal name.
Do you have property abstracts on file?
No. Abstracts are not filed in our office.
Does your office handle divorce records?
No. The Tama County Clerk of Court can help you with divorce records. You may contact them at 641-484-3721.
How do I add or take somebody off the title of my property?
You can file a deed in our office. We do not have blank forms available in our office. Many people have a lawyer create one, all documents recorded must meet our Iowa Document Formatting Standards.
What's the difference between a certified copy and an uncertified copy?
A certified copy has what most refer to as a “raised seal” and states that the copy is a true and correct reproduction of the original record. An uncertified copy or a “plain” copy has no seal or verbiage indicating authenticity. An uncertified copy also has a stamp noting “not for legal purposes.”
