Closing Guides
What to Bring to a Florida Closing
Direct answer
Bring a current government-issued photo ID that matches the name on the contract and loan documents. Buyers should arrive with funds already wired after a phone callback, or with a cashier's check if the title company approved that method. Review the Closing Disclosure or cash settlement statement the day before. Sellers should bring keys, remotes, access codes, and any HOA items the contract requires.
Key takeaways
- Your ID name must match the contract, deed, and loan documents.
- Confirm wiring instructions by calling a known phone number, never by email alone.
- Review numbers the day before so closing day is for signing, not hunting missing pages.
- Sellers need keys, remotes, and any documents the contract says they will deliver.
- If someone is signing with a power of attorney, the original POA must be approved before the appointment.
What should a Florida buyer bring to closing?
The appointment is short when the file is ready. Most of the work happened in the weeks described in how long a Florida closing takes. Closing day is identification, a final numbers check, and signatures.
- Unexpired driver's license or passport that matches the name on the contract
- A second ID if the lender or notary asked for it
- Proof that your wire was sent, after you verified instructions by phone
- Homeowner's insurance binder if the lender required it
- A copy of the Closing Disclosure you already reviewed
- Any lender conditions you were told to bring in original form
What should a Florida seller bring?
Sellers sign the deed, affidavit, and closing statement. The title company already has the payoff and tax information if the file was opened on time.
- Photo ID matching the name on the current deed
- Keys, garage remotes, gate fobs, and mailbox keys
- Alarm, lockbox, and HOA gate codes
- Forwarding address for any refunds or tax bills
- HOA or condo documents the contract says you will deliver
- Payoff or home-equity account information if it was not already sent
How should you bring the money?
Most Florida purchases are funded by wire. Ask Time to Close Title for wiring instructions, then call the office at a number you already know, such as 352-792-1214, and confirm the bank name and account before you send anything. Read our guide to wire fraud at Florida closings before you transfer funds.
Some cash files can use a cashier's check. Ask first. Personal checks are not used for the amount due at closing. Arrive with funds already in transit so the closer is not waiting on a bank cutoff.
What if your name or signer is different from the contract?
Married names, hyphenated names, and suffixes have to match. If your ID says a middle initial and the loan documents spell the full middle name, tell the closer and the lender before closing day. If a spouse must join a homestead deed, that person needs ID too.
A power of attorney has to be reviewed and, in most cases, recorded before someone else can sign for you. Do not assume a general POA from years ago will work. Send it to the title company as soon as the contract is signed.
What do you not need to haul in?
You do not need a box of old tax returns or the original listing photos. You also should not bring a last-minute cashier's check made out to the wrong company. If you are unsure, call before you leave the house. Our Spring Hill office can tell you exactly what your file still needs.
After signing, keys are released when funds are confirmed and the contract's possession terms are met. The deed then goes for recording. Contact us if you want to preview the checklist for your appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I close with a paper copy of my driver's license?
No. The notary needs the original, unexpired government-issued photo ID. A phone photo is not enough.
Do both spouses have to attend a Florida closing?
If both are on the contract or the loan, yes, unless an approved power of attorney is in place. Homestead property often requires a spouse to join the deed even when that spouse is not on title.
Can I pay my closing amount with a personal check?
Not for the amount due at closing. Use a verified wire or, if the title company agrees in advance, a cashier's check.
What if I forgot my ID?
The signing usually stops. Reschedule as soon as you can bring the original ID so recording is not delayed.
Should I bring the earnest-money receipt?
It helps if there is a question, but the title company should already show the deposit on the settlement statement. The more important item is confirmed remaining funds.
Can I sign remotely instead of coming in?
Sometimes. Remote online notarization or a traveling notary can work when the lender and underwriter allow it. Ask when the file is opened, not the morning of closing.