Every year, millions of dollars from tax sales go unclaimed. Find out how to claim funds that may belong to you or your family.
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When property taxes go unpaid, the county can sell the property at auction. Often, the property sells for more than the owed taxes.
The extra money from the sale (after taxes and fees) becomes "surplus funds" that belong to the former property owner.
Former owners have 1 year to claim these funds. After that, unclaimed money goes to the county general fund.
The former property owner at the time of the tax sale is entitled to claim surplus funds. If the owner is deceased, their heirs or estate may be able to claim.
In California, you typically have 1 year from the date of the tax sale to file a claim for excess proceeds. After this period, unclaimed funds usually go to the county.
Generally, you'll need: proof of identity (government-issued ID), proof of prior ownership (deed, title), and a completed claim form. Some counties require notarization for larger amounts.
Amounts vary widely - from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. It depends on the property's sale price minus the owed taxes and fees.
Yes! Our county lookup tool is completely free. We provide the information you need to file your own claim directly with the county.