How to Locate and Identify Assets Held in Different Counties or States Under Idaho Law

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.

Detailed Answer

When you need to find real or personal property owned by an individual or entity across multiple Idaho counties—or even other states—you must tap into a variety of public records and online databases. Below is a step-by-step process that reflects Idaho law and best practices.

1. Identify the Types of Assets

Real property (land, homes, commercial buildings)
Personal property (vehicles, boats, aircraft)
Business interests (corporate stock, LLC membership, partnerships)
Intangible assets (bank accounts, securities, patents, trademarks)

2. Search Real Property Records in Idaho

Idaho’s county assessor and recorder offices maintain ownership, parcel, and deed records for real property.

Use the county assessor’s online portal or visit in person to search by name, parcel number, or address.
Review deeds, mortgages, liens, and maps at the county recorder’s office.
Idaho Public Records Act (Idaho Code § 74-101 et seq.) provides the right to inspect most public records: ic74.

3. Locate Business and UCC Filings

To find corporate or secured-transaction interests:

Visit the Idaho Secretary of State’s business search: sos.idaho.gov/business-entities.
Search by entity name to see registered agents, addresses, and status.
Search Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings for liens or security interests: Idaho UCC Search.
Idaho corporate statutes (Title 30) explain filing and record requirements: ic30.

4. Search Vehicle and Vessel Titles

Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) holds title records for cars, boats, motorcycles, and RVs.
Request a VIN or hull identification number search via the ITD website or in person.

5. Track Intangible Assets

Bank and Brokerage Accounts: Generally require a subpoena or court order to compel disclosure under Idaho law.
Patents and Trademarks: Search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office database at uspto.gov.
Life Insurance Policies: State insurance department or the insured’s lawyer can request beneficiary information.

6. Expand Your Search to Other States

Each state maintains similar public records systems:

Access county assessor or recorder sites in other states.
Use the state secretary of state’s business and UCC search.
Understand each jurisdiction’s public records statutes; most follow a model similar to Idaho’s Public Records Act.

7. Employ Professional Resources

Private investigators and asset-search firms have subscription access to credit headers, utility records, and proprietary databases.
For complex estates or litigation, consider an attorney skilled in asset tracing and forensic accounting.

Helpful Hints

Gather as much identifying information as possible: full names, aliases, date of birth, and Social Security number.
Check multiple counties if you suspect property ownership across jurisdictions.
Use standardized spelling variations when searching public records.
Keep a detailed log of searches, dates, and results for your records.
Be aware of privacy laws; misuse of certain personal data can lead to liability.
Verify online records with certified copies when accuracy is critical.

By following these steps—leveraging county and state resources, understanding Idaho’s public records laws, and considering professional assistance—you can locate and identify assets held across multiple counties and states effectively.