FAQ — Hidden Wealth Consultants

Question 1

What is a tax foreclosure surplus?

Accepted Answer

When a county forecloses on a property for unpaid taxes and sells it at a public auction, the sale often generates more money than the amount of taxes owed. The difference between the sale price and the debt is called the surplus. Under state law, that surplus legally belongs to the former property owner — not the county.

Question 2

How does the county end up holding my money?

Accepted Answer

After a tax foreclosure auction, the county is required to hold surplus funds for a set period of time. However, counties are generally not required to actively locate or notify former owners. Many people never learn the money exists, and if the claim window closes without a claim being filed, the funds may revert to the county permanently.

Question 3

How much money could I be owed?

Accepted Answer

It varies significantly depending on the property and the auction outcome. Surplus amounts can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. The average recovery we see is over $10,000, but every situation is different. We'll give you an honest estimate once we review your case.

Question 4

Is this money actually mine to claim?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your property was sold at a tax foreclosure auction for more than the taxes owed, the surplus is legally yours under state law. The county is holding it in trust until a valid claim is filed. We handle the filing process on your behalf.

Question 5

How do I know if I have a claim?

Accepted Answer

The best way to find out is to contact us. We'll search county records using your name and former property address to determine whether a surplus exists and whether the claim window is still open. There's no cost to find out.

Question 6

What do I need to provide to get started?

Accepted Answer

Very little. We typically need your name, the address of the foreclosed property, and the approximate year the foreclosure occurred. From there, we do the research. You may be asked to provide identification and sign authorization documents later in the process.

Question 7

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the county. Some counties process claims in 4–8 weeks; others can take 3–6 months. We stay on top of the process and keep you informed throughout. We also follow up with the county if there are delays.

Question 8

Do I need to hire a lawyer?

Accepted Answer

No. We handle the entire claims process on your behalf. Our team is experienced in county surplus fund procedures and knows exactly what documentation each county requires. You don't need separate legal representation to file a surplus claim.

Question 9

What if the foreclosure happened several years ago?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the state and county. Each jurisdiction has its own deadline for filing surplus claims — some are as short as one year, others are several years. We'll check the applicable deadline for your county and let you know right away whether a valid claim is still possible.

Question 10

How much does it cost to work with Hidden Wealth Consultants?

Accepted Answer

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency basis, meaning we only collect a fee after you receive your surplus funds. If we don't recover anything for you, you owe us nothing — no exceptions.

Question 11

What percentage do you take?

Accepted Answer

Our contingency fee is discussed and agreed upon before we begin work. We're transparent about our fee structure from the start. You'll know exactly what to expect before you sign anything.

Question 12

Are there any hidden charges?

Accepted Answer

No. There are no filing fees, no administrative charges, and no surprise deductions. Our fee is the only amount taken from your recovery, and it's disclosed upfront.

Question 13

Is this process legal?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Surplus fund recovery is a fully legal process governed by state and county law. We operate in full compliance with all applicable regulations. Former property owners have a legal right to claim these funds, and we help them exercise that right.

Question 14

What states do you work in?

Accepted Answer

We primarily serve homeowners in Illinois and surrounding states. Contact us with your property details and we'll let you know if we can assist in your county.

Question 15

What if I already tried to file a claim on my own?

Accepted Answer

That's okay. If a previous claim was denied or is still pending, we may be able to help. Contact us and describe what happened — we'll review the situation and advise you on next steps.

Question 16

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Simply reach out through our contact form or give us a call. We'll review your situation at no cost and let you know whether you have a valid claim worth pursuing. There's no obligation to proceed.

Your Questions, Answered

About Surplus Funds

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