Harris Texas Financing Statement is an essential document used in Texas to secure a debtor's interest in personal property as collateral for a loan or credit transaction. It serves as a public record that informs other parties about the creditor's claim to the debtor's assets. This legal document is filed with the Harris County Clerk's Office and complies with the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), a standardized set of laws governing commercial transactions in the United States. The Harris Texas Financing Statement contains crucial information such as the debtor's name and address, the creditor's name and address, and a detailed description of the collateral being used to secure the debt. The purpose of filing a Harris Texas Financing Statement is to establish priority among multiple creditors who may have claims on the same assets. By publicly disclosing the creditor's interest in the debtor's property, it ensures that future lenders or potential buyers are aware of existing liens or encumbrances. This helps creditors protect their rights and increases transparency in business transactions. There are different types of Harris Texas Financing Statements that can be filed depending on the circumstances: 1. Original Financing Statement: This type of statement is filed when a debtor initially enters into a credit agreement and grants the creditor a security interest in specific assets or all of their personal property. 2. Amendment Financing Statement: If there are changes to the original financing agreement, an amendment financing statement is filed to update the information. This type of statement is used when modifying the collateral description, extending the maturity date, or adding or removing the name of a debtor or creditor. 3. Continuation Statement: A continuation statement is filed to extend the effectiveness of the original financing statement. According to the UCC, a financing statement is typically effective for five years, and if a creditor wishes to retain their priority over other potential claimants, they must file a continuation statement before the expiration date. It is crucial for both creditors and debtors to understand the importance of the Harris Texas Financing Statement. Creditors depend on it to protect their rights and preserve their priority in cases of debt default or bankruptcy, while debtors must be aware of the potential encumbrances or financial obligations associated with their personal property. By properly filing and maintaining these statements, both parties can engage in secure and transparent transactions, ensuring a healthy business environment in Harris County, Texas.