Facing Tax Foreclosure in Washington, D.C.? Here's What You Need to Know
If you're a homeowner in Washington, D.C. who has fallen behind on property taxes, you're not alone — and you have more options than you think.
With a population of roughly 689,545, District of Columbia is home to thousands of families, many of whom face unexpected financial hardship. Whether it's a job loss, medical emergency, or simply rising costs, falling behind on property taxes can feel overwhelming. But understanding how the process works in your county is the first step toward protecting yourself.
How Tax Sales Work in District of Columbia
District of Columbia uses Tax Lien sales, conducted by the Office of Tax and Revenue. This means the District sells a tax lien certificate on your property. An investor pays your delinquent taxes and the lien accrues interest. You have a 6-month redemption period to pay back the taxes, interest, and costs, or you risk losing your home through foreclosure.
Understanding this process is critical. The sooner you act, the more options you have — including the possibility of keeping your home.
Key Deadlines You Need to Know
Time is not on your side when it comes to tax foreclosure. In District of Columbia:
- Redemption period: DC provides a 6-month redemption period from the last day of the tax sale, during which you can redeem your property by paying all delinquent taxes, penalties, and costs.
- Escheatment timeline: Property held by a DC government agency that remains unclaimed for more than 1 year is presumed abandoned under Section 41-112. Acting quickly is essential to protect your right to surplus funds.
Every day that passes narrows your options. Do not wait to take action.
Are You Owed Surplus Funds?
If your property has already been sold at a tax sale for more than what was owed, you may be entitled to the surplus. In District of Columbia, the Office of Tax and Revenue holds these funds. Following the Supreme Court's ruling in Tyler v. Hennepin County (2023), your right to these funds is constitutionally protected.
The Court unanimously held that governments cannot keep surplus proceeds from tax sales beyond what is owed — doing so violates the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment. This means that if there is money left over after your tax debt was satisfied, that money belongs to you.
What to Do Right Now
Here are concrete steps you can take today:
- Contact the Office of Tax and Revenue in District of Columbia (county seat: Washington) to find out your current tax status, any upcoming sale dates, and what options you have to catch up on payments or enter a payment plan.
- Check for surplus funds by contacting the Office of Tax and Revenue. If your property has already been sold, ask whether any excess proceeds are being held in your name.
- Gather your documents — proof of ownership, tax records, identification, and any correspondence from the county about your property taxes.
- Contact AuctionBlock.org for free assistance. We are a mission-driven company that helps homeowners just like you navigate this process for a flat $4,999 fee upon successful recovery.
Get Free Help from AuctionBlock.org
AuctionBlock.org is a mission-driven company that assists homeowners facing tax foreclosure. Whether you need help understanding your rights, checking for surplus funds, or figuring out your next steps in Washington, D.C., we are here for you.
Contact us at info@auctionblock.org or visit auctionblock.org/get-help.
This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Last updated: April 2026.