Georgia · O.C.G.A. § 48-4-5

Georgia excess funds, explained straight.

In Georgia, surplus from a tax sale is held by the county tax commissioner or sheriff, and it belongs to the former owner, lienholders, or heirs — as their interests appear in the record.

Legal fee cap

10%

County holds funds

5 years

Then transfers to

Georgia Department of Revenue (Unclaimed Property)

Know before you sign: Georgia caps recovery fees at 10% (O.C.G.A. § 44-12-224(a)), and agreements signed within 24 months of the sale are unenforceable. Anyone quoting 25–40% is counting on you not reading this page.

Do it yourself

The claim process, step by step.

Confirm the surplus exists: check the county tax commissioner or sheriff surplus list (or send an Open Records Act request).
Confirm your standing: you were the owner of record at the sale, a lienholder, or an heir of the owner.
Gather documents: photo ID, proof of ownership or heirship, and a notarized claim statement (requirements vary by county).
Submit to the county office holding the funds. Competing claims may go to superior court interpleader.
If more than 5 years have passed, claim through Georgia DOR unclaimed property instead.

Who can file: Claimant directly, or a licensed Georgia attorney. Most metro counties refuse filings from recovery firms and POA holders.

Rather not deal with it?

Our Georgia partner handles it — at the legal fee, in writing.

Peachtree Estate Services verifies records with the county, prepares your complete claim package, and coordinates licensed Georgia attorneys where the county requires them. Contingency-only. The county pays you directly.