Behind on property taxes? How to redeem your property
Free help for owners and heirs: what a tax lien or tax sale means for you, how to find what you owe, how to redeem, and how to claim surplus money.
What does "delinquent" mean?
The property taxes for one or more years were not paid by the deadline. The county adds interest and fees and, depending on the state, sells a tax lien certificate or, later, the property itself at a tax sale.
Can I still keep my property?
Usually yes. In lien states you can redeem by paying the taxes, interest and fees to the county (normally the tax collector or treasurer) before the redemption period ends, even after a certificate was sold. In deed states there is often a period before the sale, and some states allow redemption after it.
How do I find out what I owe?
Find your county on LienDeed, then contact the county tax collector or treasurer for an official payoff amount. Only the county can give the exact figure and deadline; pay the county directly.
What is surplus (excess proceeds)?
If a property sells at a tax deed sale for more than what was owed, the extra money may belong to the former owner or heirs. Counties publish how to claim it and the deadline; you can usually claim it yourself without paying a finder.
Someone is offering to "save" my house or recover my surplus for a fee
Be careful. Ask the county first: redemption and surplus claims are normally free to file yourself. Never pay anyone who asks for money or a deed before showing the county paperwork.
Is my name on LienDeed?
LienDeed's public pages never show owner names or mailing addresses. If you have a privacy question, write to [email protected].
General information, not legal advice. The county is the authority on amounts and deadlines. Questions: [email protected].