Tax Foreclosure in Wisconsin: What Homeowners Need to Know
A guide from AuctionBlock.org — a mission-driven company dedicated to foreclosure prevention education
Wisconsin uses a tax lien/tax deed system. Counties purchase delinquent tax certificates and can eventually take title to the property through a tax deed process.
How It Works
Property taxes in Wisconsin are collected by the municipal treasurer. Under Wis. Stat. § 74.57, delinquent taxes are returned to the county, which issues a tax certificate on the property. The county holds the certificate (counties do not typically sell tax certificates to private investors in Wisconsin).
Under Wis. Stat. § 75.14 et seq., after a waiting period, the county can apply for a tax deed to take title to the property.
Redemption Period
Under Wis. Stat. § 75.14, the county cannot apply for a tax deed until 2 years after the tax certificate is issued. During this period, the property owner can redeem by paying all delinquent taxes, interest (1% per month under Wis. Stat. § 74.47), and fees to the county treasurer.
Before the tax deed is issued, the county must provide at least 4 months' notice to the property owner by registered mail (Wis. Stat. § 75.12). The owner can still redeem during this notice period.
Key Programs and Exemptions
Lottery and Gaming Credit: Wisconsin provides an automatic property tax credit to qualifying homeowners on their primary residence. This credit is applied directly to the tax bill.
Homestead Credit: Under Wis. Stat. § 71.52 et seq., qualifying homeowners with income below the statutory threshold may receive a homestead credit. The credit is claimed on the Wisconsin income tax return.
Property Tax Deferral for Seniors: Under Wis. Stat. § 16.255, qualifying homeowners 65+ with income below the statutory threshold may defer property tax payments. Deferred amounts become a lien on the property payable when the property is sold. Apply through your county or municipal treasurer.
Where to Get Help
- Legal Action of Wisconsin: Serves southeastern Wisconsin. Call (414) 274-3400 or visit legalaction.org.
- Wisconsin Judicare: Serves northern Wisconsin. Call (715) 842-1681 or 1-800-472-1638, or visit judicare.org.
- HUD-Approved Housing Counselors: Call 1-800-569-4287 or visit hud.gov/counseling.
Take Action
Contact your county treasurer if you are behind on property taxes. Ask about the homestead credit and any installment 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 county treasurer or a licensed attorney. AuctionBlock.org is a mission-driven company.