How to Recover Surplus Funds from Foreclosure Sales in Wyoming
If you lost property in Wyoming to a tax sale or mortgage foreclosure, there may be surplus money waiting for you. But in Wyoming, you have to ask for it -- it will not come to you automatically.
Tax Sale Surplus
Under Section 39-13-107, when a property sells at a tax sale for more than the delinquent taxes and costs, the extra money is surplus. You can claim it from the County Treasurer or Tax Collector.
Mortgage Foreclosure Surplus
Under Section 34-4-113, after a mortgage foreclosure sale, proceeds are distributed to cover:
- Expenses and attorney fees
- The mortgage debt
- Any junior liens
- Surplus goes to you, the former owner -- on demand
The key phrase is "on demand." You must actively request your surplus. If you do not, the foreclosing party may retain it or turn it over to the state as unclaimed property.
How to Claim Your Money
- Contact the County Treasurer or Tax Collector in the county where your property was located.
- Make a written demand for your surplus proceeds.
- Provide documentation: government ID, proof of ownership, property details.
- If funds have been transferred to the state: Search Wyoming's unclaimed property database and file a claim there.
Finder's Fee Restrictions
Under Section 34-24-136, finder's agreements are unenforceable within 24 months after property is transferred to the state, and within 12 months before the scheduled reporting date. After 24 months, agreements must be in writing.
This means for-profit finders have limited windows to operate. Free company help has no such restrictions.
Do Not Let Your Surplus Disappear
If you do not demand your surplus, the foreclosing party can dispose of it under Wyoming's unclaimed property act. Once it reaches the state level, the process gets more complicated.
Tyler v. Hennepin County: A Landmark for Property Owners
In 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously in Tyler v. Hennepin County that governments cannot keep surplus proceeds from tax sales beyond what is owed, finding this violates the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment. This landmark decision has strengthened property owners' rights to surplus funds nationwide and prompted many states to reform their tax foreclosure laws. As of 2026, laws in this area are evolving rapidly, so always verify current statutes in your state.
Get Free Help Today
AuctionBlock.org is a mission-driven company that helps former property owners recover surplus funds at absolutely no cost. We will research your case, prepare your demand, and make sure you get every dollar owed to you.
Contact AuctionBlock.org today for a free consultation. Your money is waiting -- you just need to ask for it.
AuctionBlock.org is a mission-driven company providing surplus fund recovery assistance. This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently — always verify current statutes with a licensed attorney in your state. Last updated: April 2026.