Treasurer
Tax Deed FAQs
Does the taxing authority sell tax lien certificates or deeds?
We do not sell tax lien certificates or deeds in Idaho. If property taxes on real property become three (3) years delinquent, the county takes title to the property through a process called “tax deed.” This process involves extensive research to make sure that all individuals who are a legal “party in interest” (Idaho Code§63-1005) are notified of the delinquency and given an opportunity to pay the tax and retain their interest.
How is the tax deed property sold?
The county commissioners control the decisions to sell property acquired through tax deed. Idaho Code§31-08 outlines the powers and duties of the Board of Commissioners with regard to tax deed sales.
When and where are auctions held?
The auctions are held in Murphy, Idaho at the Owyhee County Courthouse in Courtroom 2, 20381 State Hwy. 78.
How is the minimum bid set?
The commissioners set what they deem to be a reasonable minimum bid based on the information provided by the Treasurer and the Assessor. The commissioners may also do an inspection of the property regarding its potential usage and value. The recommendation includes an accounting of total taxes owed with penalty and interest, pending issue fees, certifications and special assessments, costs of publication, anticipated recording fees and any other costs incurred.
What is the rate of interest on delinquent taxes?
Interest on delinquent taxes accrues at 1% per month per Idaho Code. There is no statutory interest rate, applying to parcels taken by the county through the tax deed process.
What is the redemption period for tax deed properties?
Property taken through the tax deed process may be redeemed by the owner(s)or other party(ies) holding a recorded legal interest in the property within one (1) year of tax deed issuance or until sold at public auction, whichever comes first. After sale at public auction, there is an additional one (1) year period in which the property may be redeemed if the tax deed process is proven to be irregular.
What is the process for getting a deed to the property?
Owyhee County issues a Quit Claim Deed upon the sale of property taken through tax deed. Generally, these properties are not eligible for title insurance for at least one (1) year after purchase. A purchaser could, however, employ an attorney to proceed with Quiet Title action if desired. (See Idaho Code§63-1005-One-year possession under tax deed conclusive as to regularity of proceedings.)
Where can I get information on excess funds?
As a result of 2016 Senate Bill 1347a, Owyhee County no longer keeps excess proceeds from the sale of tax-deeded properties. After excess proceeds are distributed to parties in interest who file valid claims, any remaining funds are sent to the Idaho State Treasurer, to be distributed as unclaimed funds. All inquiries and claims by and on behalf of record owners should be directed to the Office of the Treasurer of the State of Idaho. For more information visit yourmoney.idaho.gov.
