United Title of Texas (United Title) ceased all operations in the business of title insurance in Texas late Tuesday, July 29, 2008, without notice to consumers or regulators. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) has placed United Title of Texas under an Administrative Order by Consent. TDI is providing consumers with answers to Frequently Asked Questions and other information about the actions taken in Texas.
This web page will be updated as new information becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did United Title suddenly shut down operations in Texas? A: At the direction of its Colorado-based parent company, the Mercury Companies, United Title ceased all operations late Tuesday, July 29, 2008, and laid off all employees. The exact reason(s) for the Mercury Companies' decision to shut down United Title are not known by TDI at this time.
Q: What is TDI doing about the situation? A: On July 30, 2008, under the Texas Insurance Code, United Title was placed under an Administrative Order pursuant to Chapter 404 of the Texas Insurance Code. Under this Order, the Commissioner's representatives are working closely with United Title's underwriters to secure the United Title files and offices. TDI has staff coordinating with underwriters throughout the state and is making significant progress in securing the transfer of files to the appropriate underwriter.
Q: I have earnest money or other funds held in escrow at United Title. Can I get those funds released? A: TDI realizes many Texas consumers have funds held in escrow that they want released and is working with the United Title underwriters to begin this process as quickly as feasible.
Q: Are there shortages in the escrow accounts? A. TDI has no evidence at this time that United Title has any escrow shortages.
Q: What should I do if I have a closing scheduled in the next few days or weeks at United Title? A: Consumers should work with their real estate agents and escrow officers in order to best address their needs, especially if there is a closing scheduled in the next few days. If you know who the underwriter is, please contact that underwriter directly.
The following are the underwriter contacts for consumer-related inquires:
First American Title Insurance Company Austin (512) 328-3794, ext. 13 San Antonio (210) 321-0716 Houston (281) 504-1926 DFW/Tyler (817) 488-0964
Old Republic Title Kindra Wessel (888) 678-1700
Stewart Title John Rothermel (800) 292-5712
Pacific Northwest Title Don Kirkland (800) 634-5544
Title Resources Guaranty Company J. Christopher Phillips (800) 526-8018
Fidelity Title Insurance Company Jody Thomas (800) 292-5320
Q: I was an employee of United Title. Can I get COBRA coverage? A: Based on current information that TDI has gathered, it appears that health care coverage has been terminated effective July 31, 2008. Because the Mercury Companies shut down United Title, and United Title is no longer actively conducting business, it is likely that COBRA coverage will not be available. Please contact Great-West Healthcare directly to obtain a certificate of coverage:
Great-West Healthcare 1000 Great West Dr Kennett, MO 63857-3749 1-800-663-8081
For health insurance options in Texas, you may find the following link helpful:
Q: I was an employee of United Title and didn't receive my final paycheck. What can I do about unpaid wages? A: TDI understands that many former United Title employees may be owed unpaid wages. You are encouraged to keep an accurate record of your last day worked and last day through which you were paid in the event a formal process becomes available by which you can claim unpaid wages.
Read about TDI's consumer complaints process in the Helping You With Your Insurance Complaint publication. You may also e-mail, mail, or fax your complaint along with copies of your supporting documents to
Texas Department of Insurance Consumer Protection Program (MC 111-1A) P.O. Box 149091 Austin, TX 78714-9091 Fax: 512-475-1771 E-mail:ConsumerProtection@tdi.state.tx.us
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Hi Ron - Welcome to ActiveRain. I look forward to networking with you and reading your future post. Have a great day!!!