Tract index

A tract index is a document which summarizes real property transactions in certain U.S. states and may be available in the offices of Recorder of deeds.

Each entry includes several cross-reference details, such as the names of the grantor (seller) and grantee (purchaser), the description of the parcel, the volume and page of the Deed books, the date, and other identifying characteristics of the transfer (for example, the type of deed).

The number of sections within a jurisdiction dictates how many volumes are needed for a single period.

In comparison to the atlas (also called a plat map or cadastral map), which is a graphic representation of land ownership in a township for the date of publication, the tract index is relatively dynamic.

In addition, some other states permit recording offices to maintain tract indexes (for example, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Ohio, and Wisconsin).