Surplus Funds Guides

Plain-English guides

What Are Excess Proceeds After a Tax Sale?

A plain-English explanation of excess proceeds and surplus funds after tax sales and foreclosures, who can claim them, and why deadlines matter.

How to Check If You're Owed Surplus Funds

Step-by-step: how to check, for free, whether a county or court is holding surplus funds or excess proceeds for you or a family member.

How to Spot Surplus Funds Scams

Warning signs of surplus-fund and excess-proceeds scams, and how to verify any offer independently with the county or court.

How Long Do I Have to Claim Excess Proceeds in California?

California excess proceeds must be claimed before one year after the tax deed is recorded. Learn how to find your exact date and avoid late or rejected claims.

Can Heirs Claim Surplus Funds or Excess Proceeds?

Yes. Heirs can often claim surplus funds when the former owner has died. Learn the documents needed in California and Minnesota, and when probate applies.

Excess Proceeds vs. Unclaimed Property: What's the Difference?

Excess proceeds from tax sales are held by counties with strict deadlines; unclaimed property is held by the state. How they differ and where to search each.

Tyler v. Hennepin County: What It Means for Former Owners

What the 2023 Supreme Court decision in Tyler v. Hennepin County held, how Minnesota changed its law, and what it means if you lost property to taxes.

State and county guides

California excess proceeds · Minnesota tax-forfeiture surplus

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