Tax Sale Excess Proceeds
When a property sells at a tax sale, extra money may remain after the applicable debts and costs are paid. This page explains what those funds are and how they may be recovered.
What tax sale excess proceeds are
When a property is sold at a tax sale to recover unpaid property taxes, the sale price is used to cover the taxes owed plus the costs of the sale. If the property sells for more than that total, the leftover amount is called excess proceeds or surplus funds. That money may belong to the former owner or other entitled parties, not the taxing authority.
How excess funds may arise after a tax sale
A tax sale can bring in more than the amount of the unpaid taxes, penalties, interest, and sale costs combined. When that happens, the difference is not automatically kept by the county or state. The remaining funds may be held for the person or parties who had an interest in the property before the sale.
Who may be eligible to claim them
The former property owner is often the first party entitled to any excess proceeds. In some cases, heirs, beneficiaries, or other lienholders may also have a valid claim. Eligibility depends on the records tied to the property and the rules that apply where the sale took place.
Why state and county procedures matter
Each state and county sets its own process for handling excess proceeds, including who must be notified, how claims are filed, and how long interested parties have to come forward. Because these procedures differ, the steps and timing for one property may not match another. Acting promptly helps avoid missing a filing window.
How Surplus Funds Recovery can help
We review the property information and available records to help determine whether excess proceeds may be owed and who may be entitled to them. From there, we help you understand the next steps, the fees, and the claim process, with guidance and updates throughout your claim. You pay nothing upfront; our fee is contingent on successfully recovering your funds, subject to your signed agreement.
Find out if excess proceeds may be available.
Tell us a bit about the property. A claims manager will respond within one business day with a clear answer on whether excess proceeds may be owed.
(800) 660-0379 | surplus@unexagroup.com