Tax Foreclosure in Rhode Island: What Homeowners Need to Know
A guide from AuctionBlock.org — a mission-driven company dedicated to foreclosure prevention education
Rhode Island uses a tax lien/tax deed system. Municipalities sell tax titles (liens) on properties with delinquent taxes, and the municipality or lien holder can eventually foreclose.
How It Works
Property taxes in Rhode Island are collected by the municipal tax collector. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-9-1 et seq., when taxes are delinquent, the tax collector can sell the tax title at a public sale. The buyer pays the delinquent taxes and receives a certificate (tax title).
If the owner does not redeem, the tax title holder can petition the Superior Court for a decree foreclosing the right of redemption under R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-9-25 et seq.
Redemption Period
Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-9-21, the property owner has a right of redemption at any time before the court enters a final decree of foreclosure. There is no fixed statutory redemption period — the owner can redeem as long as they pay all delinquent taxes, interest, penalties, and costs before the court acts. However, the tax title holder can petition for foreclosure after 1 year from the tax sale date.
Key Programs and Exemptions
Property Tax Relief for Elderly/Disabled: Many Rhode Island municipalities provide property tax exemptions or tax freezes for qualifying homeowners 65+ or disabled. The amounts and eligibility vary by municipality. Check with your local tax assessor.
Veterans Exemption: Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-3-4 et seq., qualifying veterans may receive a property tax exemption. The exemption amount varies by municipality and veteran's disability status. Apply through your local tax assessor.
Tax Stabilization Agreements: Some municipalities may offer payment arrangements for delinquent taxes. Contact your municipal tax collector to ask about options.
Where to Get Help
- Rhode Island Legal Services: Provides free legal help to low-income residents. Call (401) 274-2652 or 1-800-662-5034, or visit rils.org.
- HUD-Approved Housing Counselors: Call 1-800-569-4287 or visit hud.gov/counseling.
Take Action
Contact your municipal tax collector immediately if you are behind on property taxes. Ask about exemptions and payment options.
Visit auctionblock.org/get-help for free resources and referrals.
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and programs change. Verify current rules with your local tax assessor or a licensed attorney. AuctionBlock.org is a mission-driven company.