Land records · Parcel maps · October 6, 2026
What Is a Tax Sale Redemption Period? How It Works
What is a tax sale redemption period? The window after a tax sale when an owner can pay taxes, interest, and costs to keep the property. Rules and records.
What is a tax sale redemption period? It is the time after a property tax sale during which the owner, and sometimes lienholders, can pay the overdue taxes plus interest, penalties, and costs to “redeem” the property and keep it. In many states the buyer at a tax sale gets a lien certificate first and only receives a deed if the property is not redeemed in time. The length of the period varies widely by state, from no redemption at all after some deed sales to several years. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
How redemption fits the tax sale process
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| Taxes go unpaid | Penalties and interest accrue |
| Tax sale | County sells a lien certificate or the property itself |
| Redemption period | Owner can pay the amount due to redeem |
| End of period | Buyer may apply for a tax deed or foreclose the lien |
See what is a tax lien and what is a tax deed.
Lien states vs deed states
- Tax lien states sell certificates that earn interest. The owner redeems by paying the certificate amount plus interest, and the buyer gets their money back with interest.
- Tax deed states sell the property itself. Some allow redemption after the sale; others do not, or allow it only for certain owners.
- Hybrid states sell a deed that remains subject to redemption for a period.
Typical lengths
Redemption periods often run from about 6 months to 3 years, depending on state law and sometimes on property type, such as homestead versus vacant land. Some states give longer periods to owner-occupied homes, farms, or certain owners. Check your state statute or county treasurer for the exact period.
What it costs to redeem
The redemption amount usually includes the delinquent taxes, interest set by law (sometimes high), penalties, the buyer’s costs, and county fees. Interest can be calculated monthly, so redeeming sooner costs less. The county treasurer or tax collector usually provides a payoff figure.
Notices
Before a tax deed issues, most states require notice to the owner and others with recorded interests, such as mortgage lenders. Missing or defective notice is a common basis for challenging a tax deed later.
Why it matters for buyers
Property bought at a tax sale, or bought from a tax sale purchaser, may carry title risk if redemption rights or notice requirements were not handled correctly. Many title insurers require a quiet title action or a waiting period before insuring a tax deed. See what is a cloud on title.
Checking a property’s status
County treasurer or tax collector websites often show delinquent taxes, tax sale certificates, and redemption deadlines. See how to look up property taxes by address.
Bottom line
A tax sale redemption period is the window after a tax sale when the owner can pay what is owed, plus interest and costs, to keep the property. Lengths and rules vary by state and property type. Check with the county treasurer for the payoff amount and deadline, and be careful with title on tax-sale property. Find county tax offices via the Platbookmapper map.
What is a tax sale redemption period FAQ
Can I get my house back after a tax sale?
In many states, yes, by redeeming during the redemption period. Rules vary by state.
How long is a tax sale redemption period?
Often 6 months to 3 years, depending on state law and property type.
What do I pay to redeem a property?
Delinquent taxes, interest, penalties, the buyer’s costs, and fees. Get a payoff from the county.
Who can redeem a property after a tax sale?
Usually the owner, and often lienholders such as mortgage lenders, depending on state law.
What happens when the redemption period ends?
The certificate holder may apply for a tax deed or foreclose, ending the owner’s right to redeem.