State guides
Maryland: claiming tax sale surplus
In Maryland, when a property sells at a tax sale for more than the taxes and expenses owed, the leftover money — surplus proceeds — is generally held by the county (the finance or tax office, depending on the county). Baltimore City runs its own separate process.
How it works
- After the sale, surplus is held by the county while the former owner — and in some cases other interested parties — may claim it.
- Claims are filed with the county office that handles tax-sale proceeds; ask for the surplus-funds claim process and the forms they use.
- Bring photo ID, proof of Social Security number, and documents showing ownership.
- We monitor selected Maryland counties, including Montgomery County.
Owner-unknown funds
Maryland counties sometimes hold surplus where the owner of record can’t be located. Those balances are typically held for a period set by state law before the county takes further action — another reason not to wait if you think funds may be held for you.
Confirm your deadline. Rules and timelines differ between counties
— and Baltimore City is its own world. Contact the county office to
confirm the current deadline for your specific case.
Who to contact
- Most counties: the county Department of Finance or tax office that conducted the sale.
- Baltimore City: the city’s tax-sale office directly.
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