The Documents You Get at Closing, and What to Do With Them
At closing someone slides a stack of paper across the table and you sign until your hand hurts. Then you go home with a folder and, if you're like most people, never open it again. Here's what's actually in there and what matters.
The four key documents
The CFPB calls these the four key documents from closing:
- Closing Disclosure. The final numbers: your loan terms, monthly payment, closing costs and who paid what. You'll need it for taxes, refinancing and when you sell.
- Promissory note. Your promise to repay the loan, with the rate and terms.
- Mortgage (security instrument). The document that lets the lender take the house if you don't pay.
- Deed. Proof the house is yours.
Title insurance
Most lenders require a lender's title policy, which protects them. An owner's title policy is optional and protects you against claims on the property from before you bought it. If you bought one, keep the policy with your closing papers.
The other papers worth keeping
- Your survey, if one was done
- The home inspection report. It's a great list of what will need work and when.
- Appliance, roof, HVAC and home warranties, with their expiration dates
- HOA documents: the declaration, bylaws, rules and the latest budget
- Your homeowners insurance declarations page
Watch out for "official" mail
Your deed and other mortgage information become public record. The CFPB warns that companies use it to send ads and even scams, and that mail with your lender's name on it may not be from your lender. Common examples are offers to sell you a copy of your deed or "mortgage protection." Check anything like that against your actual lender's contact information before you pay or reply.
Your first-year to-do list
- File your homestead exemption for the next tax year.
- Write down every warranty expiration date.
- Note your insurance renewal date and your county's property tax due date.
- Store the closing folder somewhere safe and make a scanned copy.
That folder is full of dates you'll need for years. Turning it into one calendar is the whole idea behind HomeDue.
Common questions
What documents should I keep after closing on a house?
Keep the Closing Disclosure, promissory note, mortgage and deed for as long as you own the home, plus your owner's title policy, survey, inspection report and warranties.
Why am I getting mail offering a copy of my deed?
Your deed and mortgage become public record after closing. Companies use that to send official-looking offers. Verify anything against your lender's real contact information before paying.
Never miss the date. HomeDue reads the documents that came with your property and reminds you 30, 7 and 1 day before every deadline. Join the waitlist or grab the free 12 month checklist.
Sources checked October 2026:
General information for Georgia property owners, not legal, tax or insurance advice. Rules change, so check the official source or a professional before you act.