Auditor

The Benton County Auditor’s Office plays a pivotal role in ensuring the proper functioning of county government services, elections, public records, and more. As an essential part of the local government, the Auditor is responsible for overseeing various services that affect both residents and businesses in the county. This article dives deep into the responsibilities, services, and operational aspects of the Benton County Auditor's Office, offering insight into how it supports the community and contributes to transparency and governance.

Understanding the Role of the Benton County Auditor

The Benton County Auditor is an elected official responsible for a wide range of services related to elections, public records, licensing, and accounting. The Auditor serves as the county’s chief election officer and custodian of public records, and also manages the county’s accounting functions. Through these duties, the Auditor ensures that the county’s operations run efficiently, transparently, and in compliance with state and federal regulations.

In Benton County, the Auditor’s Office is tasked with overseeing elections, maintaining public records, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and facilitating the processing of various licenses, including vehicle and marriage licenses. These services are vital to the daily lives of Benton County residents, providing critical resources and ensuring that all legal and administrative processes are handled smoothly.

Key Services Offered by the Benton County Auditor’s Office

Elections: Ensuring a Fair and Transparent Voting Process

One of the most crucial responsibilities of the Benton County Auditor is overseeing the election process. The Auditor’s office is responsible for voter registration, managing elections, and ensuring the integrity of the voting process. Benton County offers vote by mail services, making it easier for residents to participate in elections without needing to go to a polling station.

Election services include:

Voter registration and updates.
Conducting elections, including local and state elections.
Election integrity and transparency.
Distribution of voter pamphlets to inform the electorate about candidates and measures.
Canvassing of election results to ensure accuracy.

For more detailed information about voter registration and the current election process, residents can visit the Benton County Elections page.

Recording Services: Maintaining Public and Legal Records

The Auditor’s office also handles the recording of public documents, ensuring that all legal and financial records are maintained properly. This includes documents such as deeds, mortgages, and liens. The public can access these records online or in person, depending on the document’s recording date.

Key recording services include:

Document recording as required by state law.
Maintenance of a recording index that includes all publicly recorded documents.
Provision of conformed copies and certified copies of recorded documents.
Marriage licenses and other vital records.

The Auditor’s office also offers e-recording services, allowing users to submit documents for recording electronically. For more information on document recording, visit the Benton County Recording page.

Licensing Services: Vehicle, Vessel, and More

The Benton County Auditor manages various licensing services, including vehicle and vessel registration. This includes renewing tabs, registering new vehicles, and issuing marriage licenses. Licensing services are available at two locations, in Kennewick and Prosser, with changes planned for the Prosser office starting in 2025.

Services provided include:

Vehicle and vessel licensing.
Temporary vehicle registration for newly purchased vehicles.
Marriage licenses processing, including notarized applications.
Business license information and processing.

For vehicle and vessel licensing, residents can also utilize subagency services available at local businesses in the area. More details on vehicle and vessel licensing can be found at the Benton County Licensing page.

Accounting: Managing the County’s Finances

The Accounting Division of the Auditor’s Office manages Benton County’s financial operations, including accounting, payroll, and accounts payable. This division ensures the county’s financial operations are transparent, accurate, and in compliance with state and federal regulations.

Key accounting services include:

Preparation of the county’s annual financial report, which is reviewed by the State Auditor’s Office.

Processing of accounts payable for county expenses.

Payroll management for county employees.

The Accounting & Financial Reporting section is tasked with overseeing the county’s fiscal affairs, ensuring that all financial transactions are recorded and compliant with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

For more details on the Accounting Division, visit the Benton County Accounting page.

How to Access Services at the Benton County Auditor’s Office

The Benton County Auditor’s Office operates out of two main locations:

Kennewick Administrative Building: 7122 W Okanogan Pl, Suite E120, Kennewick, WA 99336.
Prosser Office: 620 Market St, Prosser, WA 99350.

The Kennewick office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., while the Prosser office offers services by appointment only starting August 2025. Residents can contact the Auditor’s office by calling (509) 736-2727 or emailing auditor@co.benton.wa.us for more information on scheduling appointments or obtaining services.

Additional Services and Resources

Public Record Information

The Benton County Auditor’s Office ensures that the public has access to critical information related to county operations. Public records such as property deeds, financial reports, and election data are available for inspection. Benton County also provides access to historical cash and fee books, allowing residents to review past financial records of the county.

For public record information or to request specific records, visit the Public Record Information page.

DD214 Recording for Veterans

Veterans of the U.S. armed services are entitled to have their DD214 certificate (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) recorded for free by the Benton County Auditor. This service is part of the county’s commitment to supporting military veterans by offering a free service that ensures their discharge records are securely maintained.

For more information on DD214 recording, contact the Benton County Recording office at (509) 786-5620 or visit the office in Kennewick or Prosser.

Contact Information for Benton County Auditor and Related Departments

Benton County Auditor
Phone: (509) 736-2727
Email: auditor@co.benton.wa.us
Address: 7122 W Okanogan Pl, Suite E120, Kennewick, WA 99336

Benton County Elections
Phone: (509) 736-3085
Address: PO Box 1000, Richland, WA 99352
Email: elections@co.benton.wa.us

Benton County Licensing
Phone: (509) 736-3926
Address: 7122 W Okanogan Pl, Suite E120, Kennewick, WA 99336

Benton County Recording
Phone: (509) 736-2727
Address: 7122 W Okanogan Pl, Suite E120, Kennewick, WA 99336
Email: auditor@co.benton.wa.us

Benton County Accounting
Phone: Unavailable
Address: Unavailable
Email: Unavailable

By understanding the critical role of the Benton County Auditor, residents can ensure they have the resources and support they need for a range of public services, from voting and licensing to recording vital documents and accessing financial data. The Auditor’s office helps facilitate these essential functions, promoting transparency, accessibility, and efficiency in county governance.

Benton County Auditor FAQs

How can I register to vote in Benton County, WA?

To register to vote in Benton County, you can easily complete the registration process online through the Washington State Secretary of State's website or visit the Benton County Elections page for detailed information on how to register in person. Registration is also available at local offices. The county provides voter registration services and assistance to ensure that you can participate in local, state, and national elections.

Where can I get a marriage license in Benton County?

Marriage licenses in Benton County can be obtained through the Benton County Auditor’s office. Both parties need to appear in person, although in some cases, notarized applications can be used if one party cannot attend. You can apply for a marriage license at the Benton County Recording page. Make sure to review the specific requirements and fees before visiting the office.

How do I access public records in Benton County?

The Benton County Auditor's office offers access to public records, including property deeds, marriage certificates, and other legal documents. You can request records in person or search online for documents recorded from January 1971 to the present at the Public Record Information page. For records from earlier years, use the Historical Document Indexes or request a search.

How can I renew my vehicle tabs in Benton County?

Vehicle tab renewals can be completed easily at the Benton County Auditor’s office or through local subagency services. You can renew your tabs at locations in Kennewick, Richland, and other areas. Detailed instructions and online renewal options are available through the Benton County Licensing page.

What services are available at the Prosser office after August 2025?

After August 2025, the Prosser location will offer services by appointment only due to facility changes. Licensing and recording services will temporarily move to other locations in the area. For more information on how to schedule an appointment or to find alternative locations, please visit the Licensing page or contact the office directly.