Cheryl Coakley-Rivera, Esq
Register of Deeds

Hampden County

Registry of Deeds

Homestead Information


In Massachusetts, an estate of Homestead is an interest in real property designed to protect the possession and enjoyment of the owner, or the owner's surviving spouse, against the claims of creditors by protecting the property from execution and forced sale, so long as such person occupies or intends to occupy the property as his or her principal place of residence (MGL Chapter 188, Section 1-10).

As of March 16, 2011, legislative changes to the Homestead Act have taken effect. Here's what you need to know:

  • The Homestead Act grants automatic protection of $125,000 to a homeowner's primary residence. Filing a Declaration of Homestead with the Registry of Deeds grants protection of up to $500,000 against attachment, seizure, execution on judgment, levy or sale.
  • Once you file a Declaration of Homestead, under the updated law, you do not have to re-file in the future. You are protected until you sell your home or voluntarily waive your rights.
  • To file, fill out the Declaration of Homestead form below with your name, your spouse's name (if applicable), your property address, and the book and page reference or Certificate of Title number for your deed. Sign the form in front of a notary and return it to the Registry of Deeds with the $35 recording fee.
  • Homestead protection does not take the place of home insurance and does not prevent entities from placing liens on the property.

Looking for the deed to your property?


Our custom database contains every recorded real estate document in the county from 1950 to now. To find documents related to your property, simply enter your full name or address into the appropriate fields, and let our system do the rest.

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Main Office

  • 4th Floor
  • 50 State Street
  • Springfield, MA 01103

  • 413-755-1722
  • [email protected]
  • Directions

  • Office Hours:
  • Mon-Fri
  • 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Recording Hours:
  • 8:30 am - 4:00 pm

  • Accepts mail
  • Certified Copies
  • Space for Closings
  • Homestead Notary
  • Plan Recording
  • Land Court Department
  • Commission Appointment Swearing in Services

Satellite Office

  • 1st Floor
  • 59 Court Street
  • Westfield, MA 01085

  • 413-755-1722 ext 1201
  • [email protected]
  • Directions

  • Office/Recording Hours:
  • Mon-Fri
  • 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

  • Certified Copies
  • Plan Recording
  • Free Parking