By Jynell D. Berkshire · September 2, 2026
The clock usually starts at the sale
In most jurisdictions the deadline runs from the date of the sale or the date the sale is confirmed, not from the day the owner learns about the money.
Where unclaimed money goes
After the window closes, funds are transferred to the county general fund or to the state unclaimed property division. Recovery is still sometimes possible from unclaimed property, but the process is slower and the proof burden is higher.
What to do first
Pull the sale confirmation order, note the date, and check the state statute that applies to that sale type. Foreclosure surplus and tax sale surplus often run on different timelines within the same state.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Contact Berkshire Law Group about your property.