Closing Documents
Your document checklist and closing disclosure guide — everything you need before signing.
Closing Documents
Don't Forget Anything on Closing Day
Print this checklist and verify each item before you leave for your closing appointment. Items marked with a star are required — the rest are recommended. Click any item for tips on obtaining it, what to watch for, and where to get it.
Government-issued photo ID
REQUIREDDriver's license, passport, or state ID. Must be valid and not expired.
Social Security card
Or documentation showing your SSN. Some states require this.
Proof of legal residency
If applicable — green card, visa, or citizenship documents.
Certified/cashier's check or wire confirmation
REQUIREDFor your closing costs and down payment. Amount will be on your Closing Disclosure.
Proof of homeowner's insurance
REQUIREDYour insurance binder showing coverage effective on or before closing date.
Bank statements (last 2-3 months)
REQUIREDShowing the source of your down payment funds.
Pay stubs (last 30 days)
Your lender may request updated employment verification.
Closing Disclosure
REQUIREDReceived at least 3 days before closing. Compare to your Loan Estimate.
Loan Estimate (for comparison)
Your original estimate to verify costs haven't changed unexpectedly.
Purchase agreement / contract
The signed agreement between you and the seller.
Home inspection report
For reference during final walk-through.
Appraisal report
Your lender should have this on file, but bring your copy.
Title commitment/report
REQUIREDShows the status of the property title and any exceptions.
Owner's title insurance policy info
If you've arranged your own title insurance (recommended).
Survey (if required)
Property boundary survey — some states require this.
Flood certification
Determines if the property is in a flood zone.
Copy of all signed documents
REQUIREDYour settlement agent should provide a complete packet.
Keys, garage openers, access codes
REQUIREDYou should receive these at or immediately after closing.
Contact info for your title company
REQUIREDIn case you need to file a claim or find your policy later.
Utility transfer confirmations
Water, electric, gas, internet — confirm effective dates.
Change of address confirmation
USPS, banks, subscriptions, employer, DMV.
Pre-Closing Document Timeline
Documents don't all arrive at once. Here's when to expect each one so you're not scrambling at the last minute:
2-4 weeks before closing
Title commitment arrives from your title company. Review Schedule B exceptions carefully — these are items NOT covered by your policy. Ask about removing any that can be cleared.
1-2 weeks before closing
Homeowner's insurance binder finalized. Your lender needs proof of coverage effective on or before closing date. Also set up utilities — some require 5-7 business days to activate.
3 business days before closing
Closing Disclosure delivered (required by federal law). Compare EVERY line to your Loan Estimate. If anything increased beyond tolerance limits, ask your lender to explain. This is your last chance to catch errors.
1-2 days before closing
Confirm wire transfer amount and instructions BY PHONE using a number you already have. Never trust emailed wire instructions. Contact your bank about wire cutoff times.
Day of closing
Complete final walk-through of the property. Bring all documents listed above, two forms of ID, and your certified funds or wire confirmation. Arrive early — closings typically take 30-90 minutes.
5 Common Document Mistakes That Delay Closings
Expired ID
Check your driver's license or passport expiration date NOW. If it expires before your closing date, renew it immediately.
Wrong insurance dates
Your homeowner's insurance must be effective ON or BEFORE your closing date — not the day after. Double-check the effective date.
Unsigned Closing Disclosure
If you haven't reviewed and acknowledged your Closing Disclosure at least 3 days before closing, the closing date may need to be pushed.
Wire sent to wrong account
Always verify wire instructions by phone. If you wired to a fraudulent account, contact your bank within the hour for the best chance of recovery.
Missing earnest money credit
Verify your earnest money deposit appears as a credit on the Closing Disclosure. If it's missing, alert your settlement agent before closing.
