How to Claim Surplus Funds in California
Claiming excess proceeds after foreclosure or a tax sale in California follows a clear process. At SurplusCheck, we handle the heavy lifting: you provide the property and sale information, we verify eligibility and file the claim with the correct county office, and when funds are released you receive your share. Our fee is 25% of the amount we recover—only if we succeed.
Step 1 — Start Your Free Search
You start by giving us the basics: the property address, the California county where the foreclosure or tax sale occurred, and—if you know it—the sale date. There is no cost for this review. We use this information to determine whether surplus funds (excess proceeds) may be available for that property and whether you may qualify as an entitled party (e.g., former owner, heir, or junior lienholder).
You can submit your details through our short online form in minutes. We respond within 1–2 business days. If surplus funds may be available and we can assist, we explain the next steps and any documents we need from you. If not, you owe nothing.
Step 2 — We Verify Eligibility and File the Claim
We confirm that you (or the person you represent) are an entitled party under California law and that the county or trustee still holds the funds. Each county has its own forms and deadlines; we know them and complete the correct paperwork. You sign only what is required—we do not ask for unnecessary documents. We then file the claim with the county treasurer, tax collector, or trustee and follow up until the claim is processed. This step often involves multiple communications with the holding office; we handle all of that so you do not have to.
Step 3 — Recovery and Your Payout
When the county or trustee releases the surplus funds, you receive 75% of the recovered amount. Our fee is 25% of what we recover for you—only if we succeed. No recovery, no fee. Processing times vary by county; some resolve claims in weeks, others in months. We keep you updated at each stage so you know where your claim stands.
Ready to Start?
If you had a foreclosure or tax sale in California and the sale price exceeded the amount owed, excess proceeds may be waiting for you. Start with a free search—no obligation.