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Shelby County Surplus Funds List

The Shelby 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 Shelby County Surplus Funds List

Available online

Department: Chancery Court Clerk & Master / Trustee

Format: Web Page

Phone: (901) 222-3900

Excess proceeds info on Trustee website. Claims require filing a Motion to Claim Excess Proceeds through Chancery Court.

View Shelby County Excess Proceeds Info

Surplus Funds Law in Tennessee

These statewide rules govern how surplus funds are handled in Shelby County and every other Tennessee county. Verify the current deadline before you file:

Sale type
Tax deed state — properties are sold outright at auction.
Who holds the funds
Chancery Court Clerk & Master (excess proceeds)
Claim window
Motion in the tax case until funds are actually sent to the state Treasurer (abandonment presumed about 1 year after confirmation)
Local terminology
In Tennessee, surplus funds are often called “excess sale proceeds”.
Records law
Tennessee Public Records Act

Statutory summaries are research aids, not legal advice — always verify current law with the Shelby County office or a licensed attorney.

How to Claim Surplus Funds in Shelby County

Follow these steps to recover unclaimed excess proceeds from a property sale in Shelby County, Tennessee.

1
Search for your funds

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.

2
Verify your eligibility

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.

3
Gather your documents

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.

4
Submit your claim

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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Prefer ready-made lists? Browse the County Database →

About Shelby County Surplus Funds

When a property in Shelby 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 Shelby County surplus funds list?

The Shelby 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 Shelby County?

To claim surplus funds in Shelby 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 Shelby 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 Shelby 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

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.