How to Check if You Have Surplus Funds in Escambia County
If your property in Escambia County, Florida, was sold at a foreclosure or tax deed auction, you might be entitled to surplus funds—the remaining proceeds after all debts and costs have been paid.
How to Check if You Have Surplus Funds in Escambia County
If your property in Escambia County, Florida, was sold at a foreclosure or tax deed auction, you might be entitled to surplus funds—the remaining proceeds after all debts and costs have been paid. However, many homeowners are unaware of these funds, especially if they didn't receive a notice. Here's how you can verify if you're owed surplus funds and the steps to claim them.
Step 1: Understand What Surplus Funds Are
Surplus funds are the excess money from a property sale after satisfying all liens, taxes, and associated costs. For instance, if your property sold for more than the total debts owed, the remaining amount is considered surplus and may be claimed by the rightful owner or their heirs.
Step 2: Search Escambia County Public Records
To determine if surplus funds exist for your property:
Visit the Escambia County Clerk's Online Public Records: Access the Online Public Records portal.
Search by Name or Case Number: Use your name or the property's case number to search for relevant records.Escambia County Clerk
Review Tax Deed Sales: Navigate to the Tax Deeds / Lands Available section to view recent sales and check for any associated surplus funds.Escambia County Clerk
Step 3: Contact the Clerk's Office Directly
If you're unable to find information online or need assistance:
Tax Deed Division: Call 850-595-4813 or email taxdeeds@escambiaclerk.com for inquiries related to tax deed sales.Escambia County Clerk
Foreclosure Sales: Contact the Civil Division at 850-595-4130 for information on foreclosure-related surplus funds.Tax Collector of Escambia County
Step 4: File a Claim for Surplus Funds
If surplus funds are available:
Complete the Surplus Claim Form: Download and fill out the Tax Deed Surplus Claim Form.Escambia County
Submit the Form: Send the completed and notarized form to:Foreclosure Surplus Fund List Directory
Escambia Clerk of the Circuit Court
Attn: Tax Deed Division
221 Palafox Place, Ste 110
Pensacola, FL 32502
Or email to taxdeeds@escambiaclerk.comAdhere to Deadlines: Per Florida Statute §197.582, claims must be filed within 120 days from the date of the surplus notice. Escambia County Clerk
Additional Tips
Check for Unclaimed Property: If surplus funds were unclaimed, they might have been transferred to the state's unclaimed property division. Visit Florida's Unclaimed Property Search to check.
Consult Legal Assistance: If you're unsure about the process or need help, consider consulting with a legal professional experienced in surplus fund claims.
Need Assistance?
If navigating this process feels overwhelming, you're not alone. Many homeowners find the surplus fund claim process complex. At Visionary Surplus Recovery, we specialize in helping individuals like you:
Identify potential surplus funds
Navigate the claim process
Ensure timely and accurate submissions
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you recover what's rightfully yours.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney for personalized guidance.