Frequently Asked Questions

When a property sells at a California tax auction for more than the taxes owed, the difference is called "surplus" or "excess proceeds." Under California Revenue & Tax Code §4675, the former owner may have the right to claim these funds.

Generally, the former property owner — the person or entity who owned the property at the time of the tax sale. In some cases, heirs, successors, or lienholders may also have a claim. Priority is determined by §4675(e).

Under California law, the deadline is generally one year from the date of the tax sale. After that, unclaimed surplus may escheat (transfer) to the county or state general fund. Check with your county for exact deadlines.

Yes. You can file a surplus claim directly with your county treasurer's or tax collector's office at no cost. The county is required to accept and process valid claims. OverageVault is an optional service — you are never required to use us.

We research county surplus records, identify potential claims, and provide filing assistance for property owners who want help navigating the process. Our search is free. If you choose to use our filing assistance, we work on a contingency basis — no upfront fees.

Searching is free. If you want us to handle the claim filing, we charge a percentage of the recovered amount — only if the claim is successful. You pay nothing upfront and nothing if the claim is denied.

Counties are required to make reasonable efforts to notify former owners, but notifications often go to outdated addresses. Many property owners never receive notice that surplus funds exist. That's why millions in surplus sit unclaimed across California.

Section 4675(c) of the California Revenue & Tax Code requires that any notice regarding surplus funds include the amount and source of the excess proceeds, and inform the former owner of their right to claim the funds directly. This ensures transparency in the surplus recovery process.

We take data security seriously. Your personal information is used solely to research and process your potential surplus claim. We never sell your data to third parties.

Surplus funds can also exist after mortgage foreclosure sales (trustee sales). The process and deadlines may differ. Contact us for a review of your specific situation.