Tax sale overage recovery

 Short version: If a property is sold at a tax auction for more than the delinquent taxes, interest, and fees owed, the extra money is called an overage (also called surplus funds or excess proceeds). In many cases, the former owner—or their heirs or certain lienholders—can claim that money.

 How Overages Happen (Step‑by‑Step) 

1. Taxes go unpaid. The county schedules a tax sale to recover what’s owed.
    
2. Property sells at auction. Winning bid often exceeds the tax bill + penalties + costs.
    
3. County pays itself first. Taxes, interest, fees, and sale costs are deducted.
    
4. The remainder is the overage. That surplus is set aside by the county.
    
5. Eligible parties can claim it. You submit proof and required documents to request your funds.
    

• Former owner at the time of the tax sale
   
• Heirs/estate representatives (if the owner is deceased)
   
• Certain lienholders/creditors (depending on state law)
   

The exact order of priority and who qualifies varies by state and county.
 

• Government‑issued ID
   
• Proof of ownership at time of sale (deed, title report)
   
• Proof of address or connection to the property
   
• Heirship/estate documents (if applicable)
   
• Any lien releases or payoff statements (if requested)
   

Counties and states often set deadlines to claim overages (sometimes months, sometimes years). If the deadline passes, the funds may be forfeited or distributed according to local law. Acting promptly is important.

• Myth: “If the county sold my home, they keep all the money.”
  Fact: After taxes/fees, the surplus is typically held for eligible claimants.
   
• Myth: “I can’t claim because I had a mortgage.”
  Fact: A mortgage or other liens may affect priority, but you may still be eligible—especially if liens were satisfied or released.
   
• Myth: “Claiming is automatic.”
  Fact: In most places, you have to file a claim with required proof.
   

1. Confirm eligibility & amount of potential overage.
    
2. Gather documents (ID, proof of ownership, heirship docs, etc.).
    
3. Complete county forms and notarized statements, if required.
    
4. Submit the claim to the correct county office or court.
    
5. Follow up on any requests for additional proof.
    
6. Receive funds after approval (timelines vary by county).
    

• Know‑how: We navigate county rules and documentation.
   
• Speed & accuracy: Proper filings reduce delays.
   
• No upfront cost: We work on a contingency fee (paid only if you recover funds).