You can claim it yourself, for free

Checklist: Missouri, money left over after a tax-deed sale

Who holds it: County treasurer (the collector pays the surplus into the county treasury); claims go to the county commission

How long: Claim within 90 days after the redemption period ends; money not distributed within 3 years goes to the county school fund

How you claim: File a written claim with the county commission that cites the recorded deed or lien giving you an interest. Former lienholders are paid first, then former owners.

Your deadline: ____________ (confirm it with the clerk)

Steps

1. Confirm the property was not redeemed
2. Get the county's surplus claim form from the collector or county commission
3. Complete it, sign it before a notary, and attach ID and proof of your interest
4. File with the county commission within 90 days after the redemption period ends
5. If claims compete, the commission can send the money to circuit court (interpleader)

Documents

• Written claim or county surplus application
• Government-issued photo ID
• Recorded deed or document showing your interest (book/page or document number)
• Birth or death certificates if claiming as an heir

What it costs you

No fee listed; county form must be notarized; no interest is paid

If someone offers to do it for you

• Fee limits: Not researched yet — ask the clerk.
• You never need to pay anyone to file.

Official links

• RSMo 140.230: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=140.230
• Greene County surplus application (example): https://www.greenecountymo.gov/files/files.php?id=42392