Knox County Surplus Funds List
The Knox County, TN surplus funds list is available online. Access the official excess proceeds list through the Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee using the link below. Surplus funds (also called overbid money or unclaimed overages) are created when a property sells at auction for more than the debt owed.
Official Knox County Surplus Funds List
Available onlineDepartment: Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee
Format: Web Page
Phone: (865) 215-2555
Trustee website has tax sale info. Excess proceeds claims filed through Chancery Court Clerk & Master.
Surplus Funds Law in Tennessee
These statewide rules govern how surplus funds are handled in Knox County and every other Tennessee county. Verify the current deadline before you file:
Statutory summaries are research aids, not legal advice — always verify current law with the Knox County office or a licensed attorney.
How to Claim Surplus Funds in Knox County
Follow these steps to recover unclaimed excess proceeds from a property sale in Knox County, Tennessee.
Visit the Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee's website using the link above. Search by your name, property address, or case number to see if surplus funds exist from your property sale.
Confirm you were the property owner at the time of the tax sale or foreclosure. If the original owner has passed away, heirs can file with proper probate documentation.
You will typically need a copy of the property deed or title, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of your current address. Heirs should also provide death certificates and probate records.
Complete the claim form from the Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee and submit it with your supporting documents. Some counties accept claims by mail, in person, or online. Processing typically takes 30 to 90 days.
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About Knox County Surplus Funds
When a property in Knox County is sold at a tax sale or foreclosure auction for more than the amount owed, the excess amount becomes surplus funds (also referred to as excess proceeds or overbid money). These unclaimed funds are held by the Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee and belong to the former property owner or their heirs.
Many property owners do not know surplus funds exist, or that they may be entitled to claim them. A recovery professional can help locate and claim these funds on your behalf. Recovery agents typically charge between 10% and 30% of the recovered amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the Knox County surplus funds list?
The Knox County surplus funds list is available online through the Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee. Use the link on this page to access the official excess proceeds list directly.
How do I claim surplus funds in Knox County?
To claim surplus funds in Knox County, Tennessee: (1) verify the funds exist on the county's list, (2) gather proof of ownership such as the property deed and government ID, (3) complete the claim form from the Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee, and (4) submit your documents. Processing typically takes 30 to 90 days.
Who is eligible to claim Knox County surplus funds?
The former property owner at the time of sale has first priority. If the owner is deceased, legal heirs or the estate can file a claim. Subordinate lienholders such as mortgage companies or judgment creditors may also be eligible depending on their lien position.
What is the deadline to claim surplus funds in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the statutory claim window is: Motion in the tax case until funds are actually sent to the state Treasurer (abandonment presumed about 1 year after confirmation). This applies to Knox County and every other Tennessee county. Verify the current deadline with the Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee before filing — unclaimed surplus funds can eventually escheat to the state.
Want a detailed walkthrough for Tennessee? Read our full guide: How to Find Surplus Funds in Tennessee →
Other Tennessee Counties
Surplus Funds Lists in Other States
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Surplus Funds List is a technology provider and does not practice law or provide legal counsel. Data accuracy depends on the publishing county. For legal guidance regarding your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state. Links to publicly available county records are provided as a convenience and do not imply endorsement or guarantee of accuracy.