Surplus funds recovery in Riverside County, CA, arise when a tax-defaulted or foreclosed property sells for more than the amount owed. Former owners (parties of interest) can recover these funds by filing a claim with the Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector. Claims require proof of ownership and should be submitted within 90 days of the sale notice.
How to Recover Surplus Funds in Riverside
- Identify Surplus: Determine if excess proceeds exist after a tax sale (if sale price > minimum bid).
- Locate Information: Review the List of Unclaimed Money on the Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector website.
- Submit a Claim: File a claim form, which often includes providing:
- Completed claim forms.
- Copy of government-issued photo ID.
- Documentation proving ownership (e.g., deed).
- Mail/Submit: Send documents to:
- Riverside County Treasurer
- Attn: Fiscal Compliance – Unclaimed Money
- P.O. Box 12005, Riverside, CA 92502-2205
Key Information for Claimants
- Timeframe: Claims are typically reviewed within 60 days.
- Competing Claims: Other parties (lienholders, IRS) may compete for funds; a formal hearing may be required if claims exceed the total amount.
- No Upfront Fees: While agents can help, owners can file claims directly with the county without fees.
- Unclaimed Funds: If not claimed within a set period (often 3 years for tax sales), the money may be transferred to the county general fund.
Specific Riverside Agencies
- Tax/Excess Proceeds: https://afterthesale.org
- Sheriff’s Unclaimed Money: Riverside County Sheriff’s Dept.
- WRCOG Refunds: Western Riverside Council of Governments.
