Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is a surplus overage?

Accepted Answer

A surplus overage occurs when a property is sold at a foreclosure auction or tax sale for more than the amount owed on the mortgage or back taxes. The difference — the surplus — legally belongs to the former homeowner, not the county or the new buyer.

Question 2

How do I know if I have surplus funds?

Accepted Answer

Most homeowners don't know they have surplus funds because counties are not required to proactively notify you. The best way to find out is through a records search — which we provide for free with no obligation.

Question 3

How long do I have to claim my funds?

Accepted Answer

Deadlines vary by state and county, but most jurisdictions allow between 1 and 5 years to file a claim before the funds revert to the county. If you think you may have a claim, it's important to act sooner rather than later.

Question 4

What types of sales generate surplus funds?

Accepted Answer

Surplus funds can arise from mortgage foreclosure auctions, tax deed sales, and sheriff's sales. If your property was sold through any of these processes and the sale price exceeded what was owed, you may be entitled to the difference.

Question 5

Who is eligible to file a surplus claim?

Accepted Answer

Generally, the former property owner at the time of the foreclosure or tax sale is eligible to claim surplus funds. In some cases, heirs or estate representatives may also qualify. Our team will verify your eligibility during the free records search.

Question 6

Does it matter how long ago the sale happened?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your state's statute of limitations. Some states allow claims for sales that occurred several years ago. We'll check the applicable deadlines as part of your free search.

Question 7

What if I no longer live in the state where the property was located?

Accepted Answer

Your current location doesn't affect your eligibility. Surplus claims are tied to the property and the sale, not your current address. We work with clients nationwide regardless of where they now reside.

Question 8

How much does it cost to work with you?

Accepted Answer

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency basis — meaning we only collect a fee if we successfully recover funds on your behalf. If we don't recover anything, you owe us nothing.

Question 9

What percentage do you take as a fee?

Accepted Answer

Our fee is a percentage of the recovered amount, which is disclosed and agreed upon before we begin any work. There are no hidden charges or surprise deductions.

Question 10

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

Most claims are resolved within 30 to 90 days after filing, though timelines vary by county. We keep you informed throughout and follow up with the county on your behalf to avoid unnecessary delays.

Question 11

Do I need to do anything myself?

Accepted Answer

Very little. You'll need to provide some basic identifying information and sign the documents we prepare. After that, we handle everything — the research, the legal preparation, the county filing, and the follow-up.

Question 12

Do I need my own attorney?

Accepted Answer

No. Every claim we file is reviewed and handled by a licensed attorney on our team. You don't need to hire separate legal representation — it's included in our service.

Question 13

What documents will I need to provide?

Accepted Answer

Typically, you'll need to provide a government-issued ID and proof of your ownership of the property at the time of sale. In some cases, additional documentation may be required, and we'll guide you through exactly what's needed.

Question 14

Is this process legal?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Claiming surplus funds is a legal right afforded to former property owners under state and county law. Our process is fully compliant with all applicable regulations, and every claim is filed through official county channels.

Understanding Surplus Overages

Eligibility & Qualifications

Our Process & Fees

Legal & Documentation

Still Have Questions?