What is a Parcel Number? What You Need To Know

A parcel number, also referred to as an assessor’s parcel number, property index number, or tax parcel number, is a unique identifier assigned to a specific piece of land by the county tax assessor or other local government authorities.

This number is essential for various legal and tax-related purposes, such as property valuation, tax assessments, and property sales.

Understanding what a parcel number is and knowing how to find it can be crucial, especially if you’re a property owner or planning to sell a piece of land.

In this guide, we’ll explore what a parcel number is, its format, how you can locate your parcel number, and why it’s important to understand this information.

What Is a Parcel Number?

A parcel number is a unique multi-digit code assigned to every parcel of land by the local government for the purpose of identifying property boundaries for tax purposes.

While the number itself does not form part of the legal description of the land, it serves as a reference point that helps tax officials, buyers, sellers, and other stakeholders easily locate and identify the property.

Depending on the location, tax authorities may refer to it as a property index number, assessor’s parcel number, or just a parcel number. It’s one of the most critical pieces of information required when selling or buying land, as it plays a vital role in legal and financial processes related to the property.

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Why Is a Parcel Number Important?

Parcel numbers serve several key functions:

• Property Identification: Local government bodies, tax assessors, and property owners use this number to uniquely identify a parcel of land.
• Tax Assessment: The number is used to assess property taxes based on the property’s value, which is determined by the local assessor’s office.
• Property Transactions: Parcel numbers are essential when transferring ownership or selling property. Without it, conducting legal property transactions can be difficult.
• Boundaries and Legal Issues: Parcel numbers help clarify property boundaries, preventing disputes between neighbors and ensuring legal documents accurately represent the land being discussed.

What Is the Format of a Parcel Number?

Parcel numbers are typically structured in a format that varies slightly depending on the locality. However, most parcel numbers consist of three or four sets of numbers, each representing a specific element of the property’s location.

1. Book Number: This set refers to the book in which the property’s parcel map is located.
2. Page Number: The second set indicates the specific page in the book where the parcel map can be found.
3. Parcel Number: The third set refers to the actual parcel number, which can vary in length depending on the region.
4. Unit Number (Optional): Some parcel numbers include a fourth set to identify separate units within a lot that has been subdivided, such as condominiums, duplexes, or apartments.

Additionally, some parcel numbers include letters at the end to denote special circumstances:

• M: Indicates Mineral Rights, such as rights to natural gas beneath the land.
• P: Possessory Interest, meaning you do not own the land but possess something on it that can be taxed.
• S: Refers to Surface Rights, implying someone else owns the mineral rights.
• T: Tax Exempt, indicating that the property is exempt from taxation.
• U: Utility, often used for properties serving a public utility function.

How to Find Your Parcel Number: 5 Simple Steps

There are multiple ways to find your parcel number, depending on the resources available in your county or municipality. Here are the top five steps to help you find this important number:

Step 1: Check Your Tax Bill

Your annual property tax bill is one of the easiest places to find your parcel number. It’s usually located next to your name and prominently displayed on the bill. Since parcel numbers can vary in format depending on the county, being familiar with the number’s structure will help you identify it quickly.

Step 2: Review Your Property Purchase Documents

If you’ve lost your tax documents, don’t worry. You can also locate the parcel number in the original paperwork from when you purchased the property, such as the Deed of Trust or the title documents.

These documents will include essential information like the parcel number, appraisal details, and more.

Step 3: Visit Your County Tax Assessor’s Website

Most counties offer online resources where you can search for parcel numbers. By visiting the county Tax Assessor’s Office website, you can typically conduct a property search using basic information like the property’s street address or owner’s name.

This tool will provide a lot of information, including the parcel number, which is often listed under property tax records.

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Step 4: Look at Your Deed of Trust

Another straightforward way to find your parcel number is by reviewing your Deed of Trust. When you bought the property, you likely received a set of documents that include the parcel number.

You can also look through other acquisition-related documents, such as title reports, appraisal records, or the deed itself.

Step 5: Get Help from a Real Estate Professional

If you’re unable to locate your parcel number on your own, a real estate agent or professional can assist you. Real estate agents often have access to specialized databases where they can quickly retrieve parcel numbers and other property-related details.

Final Thoughts on Parcel Numbers

A parcel number is a crucial piece of information that identifies your property for tax, deed, and boundary purposes. Whether you’re selling your land, updating property details, or paying taxes, having access to your parcel number is vital.

The county tax assessor’s office is responsible for assigning this number, and there are several easy ways to find it.If you’re planning to sell your land, knowing your parcel number can help streamline the process.

For example, if you choose to sell to companies like SimpleLandSelling, they can use your parcel number to evaluate the property and provide a cash offer, simplifying the transaction for you.

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FAQs

What is a parcel number used for?

A parcel number is used to uniquely identify a piece of land for tax purposes, property transactions, and boundary clarifications. It helps local governments assess taxes, track property ownership, and maintain accurate records.

How can I find my parcel number online?

You can visit your county’s Tax Assessor’s Office website and use their “property search” tool. By entering basic details like your property’s address or owner’s name, you can find the parcel number and other relevant information.

Is the parcel number the same as the legal description of the property?

No, the parcel number is not part of the legal description of the property. While the legal description provides a formal, written record of the property’s boundaries, the parcel number is an identifier used primarily for tax and administrative purposes.

What happens if my parcel number has letters at the end?

Some parcel numbers include letters that denote special circumstances, such as:

• M: Mineral Rights
• P: Possessory Interest
• S: Surface Rights
• T: Tax Exempt
• U: Utility

Can a real estate agent help me find my parcel number?

Yes, real estate agents have access to property databases that can help you quickly find your parcel number. They can assist you with other property-related information as well, especially if you’re preparing to sell your land.