How do I find my property's parcel number (APN)?
The short answer
Your parcel number is printed on your property tax bill and is usually listed on your deed. You can also look it up for free on your county's property tax, assessor or GIS map website by searching the owner's name or the address. Depending on the state, it may be called an APN, parcel ID, or PIN.
By Esther & Luke Mbongo, owners of Good Shepherd Land Co. · Updated November 5, 2026
What is a parcel number?
A parcel number is the unique ID the county uses for a piece of land. It's how the county tracks ownership and taxes, and it's the fastest way for a buyer, title company or attorney to find exactly which land you mean, even when the land has no street address.
It goes by different names:
- APN (Assessor's Parcel Number), common in many states
- Parcel ID or Map/Parcel number, common in Tennessee
- PIN (Parcel Identification Number), common in North Carolina
Where to find it
- Your property tax bill or receipt. The parcel number is almost always printed near the top.
- Your deed. Many deeds list the parcel or map number. You can get a copy from the county Register of Deeds.
- The county website. Most counties have a free online property search or GIS map. Search by owner name, address or road, then click the parcel to see its number, acreage and map.
- Call the county. The property assessor's office or tax office (in Tennessee, the county trustee handles tax collection; in North Carolina, the county tax office) can look it up for you.
Tips
- If you own several parcels, each has its own number. Send them all.
- Inherited land may still be listed under the previous owner's name. Search that name instead.
- Can't find it? The county name plus the owner's name or a nearby road is usually enough for us to locate it.
Found your parcel number?
That's all we need to get started. Enter it in our form along with the county, and we'll send a fair cash offer in about 48 hours.
Related
- How much is my land worth?
- How do I sell land I live far away from?
- How do I sell land I inherited in Tennessee?
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every property and family situation is different. For advice about your situation, talk with a real estate attorney.