How Surplus Funds Recovery Works
A complete guide to understanding, finding, and claiming the money that's rightfully yours
Understanding Surplus Funds
What Exactly Are Surplus Funds?
When a property is sold at a tax deed auction or foreclosure sale, it often sells for more than the outstanding debt. This excess amount—the "surplus"—legally belongs to the former property owner.
For example, if you owed $15,000 in back taxes and your property sold for $85,000, there's $70,000 in surplus funds sitting in the county treasury waiting for you.
The problem? Counties don't actively search for you. They hold the money, send one letter to your last known address, and if you don't respond—the money sits there or eventually gets absorbed.
Legal Framework
Your Legal Right to These Funds
Florida Statute 197.582
Florida law requires counties to hold surplus funds from tax deed sales. Former owners have the legal right to claim these funds within the statute of limitations.
Time Limits Apply
Most Florida counties have a 4-year window from the date of sale. After this period, you may lose your right to claim forever. Acting quickly is critical.
Heirs Can Claim Too
If the original owner has passed away, legal heirs can file a claim. We help navigate probate requirements and heir documentation.
Our Process
Your Journey to Recovery
Here's exactly what happens from your first call to receiving your check
Day 1
Free Verification Call
We verify your identity and confirm surplus funds exist in your name. We explain the process, our fees (contingency-based), and answer all your questions. No obligation.
✓ Confirm fund amount
✓ Verify deadline status
✓ Explain next steps
Days 2-8
County Review
We guide you through gathering required documents. Most people only need ID and proof of ownership—we handle the complex county forms.
✓ Government-issued ID
✓ Proof of prior ownership
✓ Signed claim forms (we prepare)
Week 1
Claim Filing
We prepare and file your complete claim package with the county clerk's office. Every document is reviewed for accuracy to prevent delays.
✓ Prepare legal claim forms
✓ Submit to county clerk
✓ Confirm receipt
Weeks 2-8
County Review
The county reviews and processes your claim. We monitor progress, respond to any requests for additional information, and keep you updated.
✓ Monitor claim status
✓ Handle county inquiries
✓ Weekly status updates
Final Step
You Get Paid!
Once approved, the county issues a check. We coordinate delivery, and only then do we collect our agreed-upon percentage. If you don't get paid, neither do we.
✓ Receive your check
✓ Contingency fee collected
✓ Celebrate your recovery!
What You'll Need
Required Documents
Don't worry—most people have everything they need. We guide you through each step.
Valid ID
Driver's license or passport
Required
Proof of Ownership
Prior deed, tax records, or mortgage docs
Required
Claim Form
We prepare this for you
Required
Notarization
We coordinate this service
We handle this
Timeline
Realistic Expectations
Note: Total timeline typically ranges from 60-120 days depending on the county's processing speed. Some counties are faster; complex cases may take longer.
Ready to Start Your Claim?
Free verification, no upfront costs, and we only get paid when you do.
Faithful Alliance
Helping families recover unclaimed surplus funds since 2012. Licensed, bonded, and committed to getting you what's rightfully yours.
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