Timeline Overview
While every case is unique, most surplus funds recoveries take between 60-120 days from start to finish. Tax sale overages can take longer—up to 12 months in some cases.
What Affects the Timeline?
Several factors can impact how quickly you'll receive your surplus funds:
Type of Sale
Mortgage foreclosure claims typically process faster (60-120 days) than tax sale claims (can take 6-12 months).
County Procedures
Each county has different processing times. Some counties are efficient and process claims quickly; others have backlogs.
Complexity of Case
Cases with multiple heirs, disputed ownership, or missing documentation take longer to resolve.
Court Schedules
If your claim requires a court hearing, you're at the mercy of the court's calendar, which can add significant time.
Typical Timeline Breakdown
Days 1-7: Initial Consultation & Research
We review your case, verify surplus funds exist, and determine your eligibility. This phase is completed within a week.
Days 8-30: Documentation Preparation
We locate and prepare all necessary documents including deeds, foreclosure records, and claim forms. You'll sign and notarize required paperwork.
Days 31-60: Claim Submission
We submit your claim to the appropriate entity (county clerk, court, or trustee). The claim enters their processing queue.
Days 61-90: Review & Approval
The holding entity reviews your claim. They may request additional information. If everything is in order, they approve the claim.
Days 91-120: Fund Disbursement
Once approved, the county or court processes your payment. You receive your check via mail or direct deposit.
Why Speed Matters
⚠️ Don't Delay
While the process takes time, starting immediately is critical. Every day you wait is a day closer to potentially missing your deadline. Once the deadline passes, recovery becomes much more difficult—or impossible.
What We Do to Speed Up Your Claim
- Prepare complete, accurate documentation the first time (reduces back-and-forth)
- Use established relationships with county officials
- Follow up proactively on your claim status
- Antipicate and address potential issues before they cause delays
- Expedite notarization and document processing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I speed up the process?
Unfortunately, much of the timeline is outside anyone's control—county processing times and court schedules dictate the pace. However, working with professionals who understand the system can minimize avoidable delays.
What if my claim takes longer than expected?
Delays are common and don't necessarily mean something is wrong. We stay in contact with you throughout the process and update you on any developments or expected timeline changes.
Is there any way to get my funds faster?
Some counties offer expedited processing for an additional fee. In rare cases, emergency motions can be filed, but these are usually only granted in exceptional circumstances.
Start Your Recovery Today
The sooner you start, the sooner you'll receive your funds. Every day of delay is a day longer before you get what's rightfully yours.
Start Your Recovery Today
The sooner you start, the sooner you'll receive your funds. Every day of delay is a day longer before you get what's rightfully yours.
Start Recovery Now