Quitclaim deeds in California are initially defined by Civ. Code, 1092, 1104-1107, 1113, and further in Gov. Code 27279-27297.7, 27320-27337.

Content:
Each document submitted for recording should have the title near the top of the first page (Gov. Code 27324). Include the name and address of the individual requesting recording as well as a name and return address for use after the quitclaim deed is recorded. Provide the name and address of the individual or entity to receive tax bills at the bottom of the first page. (Gov. Code 27321.5, 27361.6). In addition, every quit claim deed must contain the name and address of everyone with an ownership interest in the property. Be certain to present the names in exactly the same way they're found on the prior deed. If there are any unrecorded changes, provide the original and new names like this: Jane Doe, formerly known as Jane Smith. See Gov. Code 27288.1.

Any document which modifies, releases, or cancels the provisions of a previously recorded document shall state the recorder identification number or the book and page of the document being modified, released, or canceled. (Gov. Code 27361.6). Additionally, Gov. Code 27280.5 requires that the names of parties required to be indexed appearing in any instrument, paper, or notice presented for recordation should be legibly typed or printed near the signature. The names of all persons executing or witnessing a document shall be legibly signed or shall be typed or printed to the side of or below the signature.
While not specifically discussed in the statutes, a valid quit claim deed should also include, at minimum, a complete legal description of the property and the name, address, and vesting choice of the grantee.

Recording:
Note that Gov. Code 27293 requires that quit claim deeds in languages other than English are not suitable for recording. Civ. Code 1169 states that quit claim deeds must be recorded by the County Recorder of the county in which the conveyed real estate is situated.
Civ. Code 1213-1214 discuss California's recording statute, which is classified as "race-notice." Basically, the first bona fide purchaser....will prevail over an earlier purchaser who failed to record the conveyance. So, despite Civ. Code 1217, which states that "an unrecorded instrument is valid as between the parties thereto and those who have notice thereof," just because the parties on the quit claim deed know about it, their knowledge does NOT constitute constructive notice to the public. Therefore, RECORD THE QUIT CLAIM DEED as soon as possible after executing it. This protects the interests of all parties.

Gov. Code 27361.6 formalizes some formatting requirements: The top right 2 " X 5" corner is reserved for the Recorder's use only. The top left 2 " X 3 " corner is reserved for the name of the person requesting recording and a return name and address. The title of the document must appear on the first page immediately below the space reserved for the Recorder.

(California Quitclaim Deed Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example)

How to Use This Form

Select your county from the list above
Download the county-specific form
Fill in the required information
Have the document notarized if required
Record with your county recorder's office

What Others Like You Are Saying

— Mary K.

"I love this site already! Even though I have not executed my downloads, the documents are so profess…"

— David B.

"fast and easy."

— Jeanne V.

"The service your provide is awesome. I rarely need to file a deed through e-recording, but when an e…"

— Richard G.

"I was not able to add more linea to the deed and add up to four people and their addresses. The docu…"

— Jennifer A.

"Great site"

Common Uses for Quitclaim Deed

Transfer property between business entities
Transfer property as part of a divorce settlement
Convey property as part of a business dissolution
Transfer a partial interest in a property
Remove an ex-spouse from a property title
Transfer ownership to a living trust

Compare other California deed forms and documents

Gift Deed Warranty Deed Special Warranty Deed Grant Deed Deed Corrective Affidavit Transfer on Death Deed Transfer on Death Revocation Transfer on Death Affidavit Interspousal Transfer Grant Deed Grant Deed for Life Estate Easement Deed Termination, Cancellation of Easement / Right of Way Special Durable Power of Attorney for the Sale of Property Special Durable Power of Attorney for the Purchase of Property Affidavit Death of Joint Tenant Affidavit of Surviving Spouse Long Form Deed of Trust Assignment of Deed of Trust Substitution of Trustee and Full Reconveyance Deed of Full Reconveyance Memorandum and Notice of Agreement Full Release of Memorandum and Notice of Agreement Assignment of Leases and Rents Release of Assignment of Leases and Rents. Personal Representative Deed Disclaimer of Interest Preliminary Notice Notice of Completion Notice of Mechanics Lien Mineral Deed Mineral Deed with Quitclaim Covenants Notice of Pending Action Release of Notice of Pending Action Certificate of Trust Trustee Deed Upon Sale

Important: County-Specific Forms

Our quitclaim deed forms are specifically formatted for each county in California.

After selecting your county, you'll receive forms that meet all local recording requirements, ensuring your documents will be accepted without delays or rejection fees.

Back to California Forms