When a DeKalb County property sells at tax sale for more than what's owed, the excess is legally yours. DFH has helped Decatur, Atlanta, and metro DeKalb property owners recover millions from the county's Superior Court.
DeKalb County's tax sale surplus process follows Georgia law. Here's exactly what happens and what it means for you.
When a DeKalb County property is foreclosed and sold at the annual tax sale — typically held in September — any amount above the taxes, penalties, and fees owed becomes surplus funds.
Under O.C.G.A. § 48-4-5, the DeKalb County Tax Commissioner holds excess proceeds until a court order directs distribution. This means your money is held safely — but you have to petition to get it back.
You file a petition with the DeKalb County Superior Court. DFH prepares and files all paperwork, handles documentation requirements, and manages the process end-to-end on your behalf.
Our database reflects the current landscape of DeKalb County surplus fund records. These figures represent active, unclaimed amounts waiting to be recovered.
* Surplus ranges based on our current database and Georgia statute. Actual amounts vary by property. Act promptly — funds not claimed within the statutory window may escheat to the state.
Every DeKalb County surplus fund petition requires specific documentation. DFH helps you gather everything and ensures it's in the format the court expects.
Deed to the property, tax bill, or other documentation establishing ownership at time of sale.
Valid photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) for the petitioner.
Parcel ID, sale date, and any documentation about the surplus amount held by the county.
Death certificate, will, or probate court documentation establishing heirship for deceased owners.
Petitions are filed with the DeKalb County Superior Court in Decatur. DFH prepares the petition documents, files them with the court, and handles any follow-up required by the judge's order. DeKalb typically processes surplus petitions within 4–8 weeks once filed.
DeKalb County tax sales are typically held once per year in September. Surplus from prior-year sales remains held until claimed or escheated.
Property owners in DeKalb County have specific questions about the local surplus fund process. Here are the most common ones we hear.
DeKalb isn't the only county with unclaimed surplus. Explore other metro Atlanta counties we cover.
361 active records · $6.4M+ total surplus
124 active records · $2.8M+ total surplus
117 active records · $2.8M+ total surplus
159 counties covered · Full state guide
Step-by-step guide for all Georgia property owners
No upfront fees, ever. DFH only gets paid when you receive your surplus funds. Fill out the form and we'll be in touch within one business day.