Facing Tax Foreclosure in White County, Indiana? Know Your Rights and Options
If you own a home in White County, Indiana, and you have fallen behind on property taxes, you are not alone -- and you are not without options.
How Tax Sales Work in White County
Indiana conducts tax sales under IC 6-1.1-24 where purchasers bid on tax sale certificates. The winning bidder pays the county, and any amount exceeding the delinquent taxes, assessments, penalties, and costs is deposited into a separate tax sale surplus fund. In White County, the County Treasurer handles tax matters and the County Treasurer (county seat: Monticello) oversees surplus funds. This county uses a tax lien sale.
Surplus Funds and Your Rights
Indiana law specifically creates a "tax sale surplus fund" for excess proceeds. Under IC 6-1.1-24-6.4, the former owner of record at the time the tax deed was issued can file a verified claim for these surplus funds. Indiana also caps finder's fees at 10% under IC 6-1.1-24-7.5, protecting you from predatory recovery services.
The 2023 Supreme Court ruling in Tyler v. Hennepin County confirmed that governments cannot keep surplus proceeds beyond what is owed -- strengthening property owners' rights nationwide.
Key Deadlines
Indiana gives you three years from the date surplus funds are deposited to file a claim. Under IC 6-1.1-24-6.4(c), after three years, funds transfer to the county general fund and are generally no longer recoverable. This is a hard deadline with no exceptions.
Steps You Can Take Right Now
- Contact the County Treasurer in White County (Monticello) and ask about surplus funds from the tax sale of your property.
- Visit the County Auditor's office in person. Indiana requires in-person inspection of tax sale records. Bring your ID and property documents.
- File a verified claim with both the County Auditor and County Treasurer, proving you were the owner of record when the tax deed was issued.
- Know the fee cap. Indiana limits finder's fees to 10%. Never pay more, and never pay upfront. Consult an attorney if your claim is complex or the three-year deadline is near.
Get Free Help from AuctionBlock.org
AuctionBlock.org is a mission-driven company that helps former property owners recover surplus funds for a flat $4,999 fee upon successful recovery. We can help you search for funds, navigate the claim process, prepare documentation, and connect with legal resources.
If you are in White County and facing tax trouble -- or you have already lost your property -- act today. Visit AuctionBlock.org to get started.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Tax laws change frequently -- verify current statutes and consult a licensed Indiana attorney before acting. AuctionBlock.org is a mission-driven company. Last updated: April 2026.