How to Check If You're Owed Surplus Funds

By the Owner Guardian Team · Published 2026-10-10 · Updated 2026-10-11

How to Check If You're Owed · How to check for free whether a county or court is holding surplus funds for you or your family, how to verify on your own, and how to claim directly for free.

You can check for free. Here is how.

1. Identify the property and county

Note the address, county, and approximate year it was sold or lost.

2. Find the official office

For tax sales, look for the county treasurer-tax collector (or auditor/treasurer in Minnesota). For foreclosures, contact the clerk of court where the case was filed. Always use the official .gov site.

3. Look for an excess-proceeds or surplus list

Many counties publish lists by parcel number or owner name. Search the county site for "excess proceeds" or "surplus."

4. Call or email the office

Ask whether funds are held, the claim deadline, and which claim form to use.

5. File the claim

Complete the county's form, attach ID and ownership documents, and get it notarized if required. Keep copies and proof of delivery.

If this feels like too much, or the owner has passed away and records are scattered, a professional can help. But you are never required to hire anyone.

Published October 2026. General information, not legal advice.

Ask if you may be owed