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What If You Move Out of State? Can You Still Claim Surplus Funds?

March 05, 2025•2 min read


If you've lost your home to foreclosure or a tax sale and have since moved to another state, you may be wondering: Can I still claim surplus funds? The good news is yes—moving out of state does not prevent you from recovering excess proceeds from a foreclosure sale. However, there are important steps to follow to ensure a successful claim.


Understanding Surplus Funds

When a home is sold at auction due to foreclosure or unpaid property taxes, it may sell for more than the amount owed. The remaining balance, known as surplus funds, is legally owed to the former homeowner or their heirs.

Since these funds are tied to the county and state where the property was foreclosed, the process of claiming them may vary depending on local regulations.



Can You Claim Surplus Funds from Another State?

Absolutely! You do not need to be physically present in the state where the foreclosure happened to claim surplus funds. Here’s how you can proceed:

1. Check If You’re Owed Surplus Funds

Each state has different rules on how long surplus funds are held before being turned over to the state treasury. To start, check with:

âś… The county court that handled the foreclosure.

âś… The tax collector or treasurer’s office if it was a tax sale.

âś… Unclaimed property websites to see if funds were escheated (turned over to the state).


2. Submit Your Claim Remotely

Most states allow homeowners and heirs to claim surplus funds without needing to appear in person. Depending on the state, you may be able to:

đź“Ś File your claim online through the county or state treasury’s website.

đź“Ś Mail notarized documents verifying your identity and ownership.

đź“Ś Work with a professional service like Surplus Refund LLC to handle the claim on your behalf.


3. Provide the Required Documentation

To claim your funds from another state, you will typically need:

đź“Ť Proof of identity (Driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID).

đź“Ť Proof of ownership (A deed or mortgage document showing your name on the property).

đź“Ť Court documents confirming the foreclosure sale and surplus amount.

đź“Ť Notarized claim forms (some states require this to prevent fraud).

If you are an heir claiming surplus funds from a deceased relative, additional paperwork like a death certificate and probate documents may be required.


4. Watch Out for Deadlines

Each state has a time limit for claiming surplus funds. If you miss the deadline, the money may be forfeited to the state permanently.

🔎 Tip: If you’re unsure of the deadline, reach out to a surplus recovery expert for assistance.




How Surplus Refund LLC Can Help

Claiming surplus funds from another state can feel overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with the legal process. Surplus Refund LLC specializes in helping homeowners and heirs recover funds efficiently. Our team handles all the paperwork, verifies eligibility, and ensures your claim is processed correctly.

Don’t let distance stop you from getting what’s rightfully yours! If you think you may be owed surplus funds from a foreclosure or tax sale, contact Surplus Refund LLC today for a free consultation.

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