> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://howtouse.probatedata.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# How to tell the difference between alerts vs. leads

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**Understanding the Difference Between Alerts and Leads in Probate Data**

1. **Leads**

* **Delivery:** Leads are emailed directly to your inbox for your preferred counties (e.g., Los Angeles or San Diego).
* **Access:** Open the email, click the provided CSV or PDF file, and download it instantly to your computer.
* **Prospecting:** No need to log into Probate Data; you can start working on leads immediately.
2. **Alerts**

* **Setup:** Alerts are customizable notifications for counties you may not subscribe to (e.g., Clark County, Nevada).
* **Criteria:** Set specific filters, such as properties with phone numbers and email addresses or those marked as available.
* **Access:** Alerts generate an email notification containing a link to search results in Probate Data, where you can select and download the data.
* **Flexibility:** Unlimited alerts can be created, each tailored to different criteria or markets of interest.
3. **Key Difference**

* **Leads:** Delivered automatically for subscribed counties, ready to download directly from your inbox.
* **Alerts:** Require you to log in to Probate Data, view search results, and manually select and download the data.

**Summary:** Use leads for automated updates on subscribed counties and alerts for custom notifications in additional markets, ensuring you stay informed and proactive in your prospecting efforts.