Duval County Surplus Authority LLC

Florida Tax Deeds and Certificates: Overview In Florida, the tax certificate and tax deed process is a mechanism for counties to recover unpaid property taxes (per Chapter 197, Florida Statutes). It starts with delinquency and can lead to property auction if unresolved. Below is a concise summary for your website's "Tax Deeds" section—feel free to copy/edit.Tax Certificates

• What It Is: When property taxes go unpaid, the county tax collector sells a tax certificate at public auction to investors (certificate holders). This acts as a lien on the property for the delinquent taxes, interest (up to 18% annually), and fees.

• Process: The owner has 2+ years to redeem (pay back) the certificate plus interest. If not redeemed, the certificate holder can apply for a tax deed.

• Key Benefit: High interest potential for buyers; secures the county's tax recovery.

Tax Deeds

• What It Is: A tax deed transfers full ownership of the property to the highest bidder at a public auction, extinguishing most prior liens and interests (except certain governmental liens).

• Process: Triggered by the certificate holder's application to the clerk of court. The county advertises the sale (minimum bid covers taxes/fees). Auctions are online or in-person, often overbids drive competitive pricing.

• Outcome: Buyer receives a clerk-issued deed; original owner loses title unless they redeem pre-sale.

How Surplus Is Generated: Surplus funds arise when the tax deed auction bid exceeds the "opening bid" (delinquent taxes + accrued interest + sale costs/fees). For example:

• Opening bid: $10,000 (owed amount).

• Winning bid: $15,000.

• Surplus: $5,000 (after costs).

Proceeds first cover taxes/fees; any excess is held by the clerk for distribution. Claiming Surplus:

• Eligibility: Former owner, heirs, or holders of extinguished liens (e.g., mortgages recorded before the certificate).

• Process (per §197.582, F.S.):

  1. File a sworn claim with the county clerk within 2 years of the sale, including proof of interest.

  2. Clerk notifies parties; holds a hearing if disputed.

  3. Distribution prioritizes recorded interests; unclaimed funds escheat to the county after 2 years.

How Surplus is Generated

🟢 GOOD NEWS!!

For: ____________________________________

YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO SURPLUS FUNDS

From the sale of property at: ___________________________________________________________

Sold on: ___________ @ DUVAL COUNTY TAX DEED SALE P/N# ___________________

⚠️ ACT NOW — TIME IS RUNNING OUT

If you do not act within the legal deadlines,
you may permanently lose your right to claim these funds.

• 120 days from the official notice: Lienholders lose their rights

• 1 year from the notice: Funds may be transferred to the State of Florida

📞 Contact DCSA Immediately

We’ve enclosed details, proof of your eligibility, and your service options. Call for specific details.
Let’s help you recover what’s rightfully yours—before it’s too late.

Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA)
📍 6501 Arlington Expressway, B105 #7089, Jacksonville, FL 32211 (Main)

📍 6357 Smallwood Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32216 (Snail Mail)

📞 (904) 758-8278 (Main) -- (904) 874-6443 (J.J.Tolen, Mgr)

✉️ support@dcsa.pro
🕒 Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA)

6501 Arlington Expressway B105 #7089

Jacksonville, FL 32211

Phone: (904) 758-8278 Email: support@dcsa.pro

Date: ___________________

IN RE:

You May Be Entitled to Surplus Funds from a Tax Deed Sale

Dear _____________________________,

We’re reaching out with important news that may directly affect you.

According to public records, a property that you previously owned @ _________ _________ _________ ________, was sold at a Duval County tax deed auction on ___________. That sale generated surplus funds in the amount of $(PLEASE CALL), which may be rightfully yours to claim. (Specific $ amounts withheld for your privacy and are subject to change, please call or ask us in person)

Based on our research, you were the owner of record at the time of the tax deed application and subsequent sale of the property, or you were/are listed as the beneficiary. Wherefore, you may be entitled to the surplus funds. We’ve enclosed supporting documentation, including:

• A copy of the Notice of Surplus Funds issued by the Duval County Clerk

• Publicly recorded deed records confirming your ownership (and/or chain of title)

• A summary of your service options for claiming the funds

⏳ Why This Matters Now

There are strict legal deadlines that affect your ability to recover these funds:

• 120 days from the date of the Notice of Surplus: Lienholders lose their right to claims against the available surplus

• 1 year from the same date: Unclaimed funds begin escheating to the state and may be transferred to probate court for processing!

• There are other deadlines as well, which we will explain in further detail

Once these deadlines pass, your ability to recover the funds may be lost permanently, and/or your claim may be seriously delayed.

🛠🛠 How We Can Help

Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA) is an organization that helps individuals like you recover surplus funds quickly, legally, and with minimal stress. You are not required to use our services—but we offer free advice and three flexible options to fit your needs:

1. Notice & Guidance Only – We provide the official claim form, instructions, a checklist so you can file the claim yourself, and phone support.

2. Assignment of Rights – You assign your rights to us, and we handle the entire process on your behalf.

3. Immediate Buyout – We purchase your rights and pay you a lump sum up front. (must qualify)

You’ll find a summary of these options enclosed. Once you’ve reviewed them, we’ll meet with you to answer questions and—if you’re ready—present the appropriate agreement to begin the process.

✅ Next Steps

Please contact us as soon as possible to confirm your interest. We can meet in person, by phone, or at a location convenient for you. If you’ve already received this packet in person, we’d be happy to answer your questions now and help you move forward.

We’re here to help—but time is not on your side. Let’s make sure these funds don’t slip away.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey J Tolen, Mgr., Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA)

(904) 874-6443 (Personal) / (904) 758-8278 (Main)

Cc: dcsa file support@dcsa.pro

DCSA Notice & Guidance Services Agreement

1. Parties
This Agreement is entered into by Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA), a private surplus assistance organization, and the undersigned individual(s), hereinafter referred to as “Client.”

2. Purpose
Client affirms that they have been informed by DCSA of potential surplus funds resulting from the tax deed sale of property previously owned by the Client, held by the Duval County Clerk of Court.

3. Scope of Services Provided
DCSA agrees to:

• Provide official claim forms issued by the Clerk of Court

• Offer written step-by-step instructions for filing the claim

• Help identify the necessary supporting documentation

• Provide Phone/Email Support; Clarify questions related to the surplus process (non-legal guidance only)

• Provide Secure Mail Process*

*Mailing Address Authorization: Client authorizes Duval County Surplus Authority (DCSA) to assist in the preparation of surplus claim forms, including the designation of a preferred mailing address for delivery of surplus proceeds. Client affirms that any such address provided is valid and under their control or direction. Client further agrees that DCSA may, with their consent, list an alternate mailing address for the purpose of secure delivery, tracking, or coordination of funds, without altering the Client’s legal entitlement to the surplus.

4. Client Responsibilities
Client retains sole responsibility for filing the claim and for any interactions with the Clerk’s Office. DCSA does not file claims or represent the Client before the Clerk in this service tier.

5. Fees and Payment
The Client agrees to compensate DCSA (or its designated payee) ___% of the total surplus monies recovered, or 30%, whichever is less. This fee is due immediately upon the Client’s receipt of the surplus funds, or by the close of the following business day after receipt of the funds. Payment instructions will be provided at the time of disbursement unless previously specified in writing. Any additional fees or costs—such as document acquisition, notary, or filing services—will be disclosed and pre-authorized on a case-by-case basis, as necessary and lawfully required.

6. No Guarantee of Recovery
Client acknowledges that DCSA makes no representations or guarantees regarding approval of their claim or the amount of any surplus awarded.

7. Confidentiality & Authorization
Client authorizes DCSA to collect and use publicly available information for the purposes of service delivery. Client information will not be sold or used for any purpose beyond this agreement.

8. Not Legal Advice
Client understands DCSA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. If legal assistance is needed, Client agrees to consult an attorney.

9. Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Florida, with venue in Duval County.

👤 Signature Section (Includes Notary Block)

I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to the terms of this Notice & Guidance Services Agreement.

Client Full Name:

_____________________________

Signature:

_____________________________

Date:

_____________________________

Notary Public

State of Florida
County of Duval / _____________

Sworn to and subscribed before me on this ___ day of __________, ___________
by ____________________________________________
who is personally known to me or has produced ___________________ as identification: ____________________________________.

Notary Signature: ________________________
Seal: [STAMP HERE]

Assignment of Rights Agreement

Prepared by Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA)
For the Recovery of Surplus Funds from a Tax Deed Sale

1. Parties
This Agreement is entered into by Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA), a private surplus assistance organization, and the undersigned individual(s), hereinafter referred to as “Assignor” or “Client.”

2. Purpose
Client affirms that they may be entitled to surplus funds held by the Duval County Clerk of Court as a result of a tax deed sale of property formerly owned by the Client. Client wishes to assign their rights to claim and recover such funds to DCSA. This assignment authorizes DCSA to prepare, sign, and submit all necessary documents, affidavits, and claims in its own name or on behalf of the Client, and to receive and disburse any funds recovered.

3. Property & Surplus Details

• Property Address: ______________________________________________________

• Legal Description: ______________________________________________________

• ______________________________________________________________________

• Tax Deed Sale Date: ___________________________

• Estimated Gross Surplus Amount: $____________________

4. Compensation
DCSA shall retain from the recovered surplus funds an amount equal to the agreed-upon fee, which will be disclosed and acknowledged in a separate Fee Disclosure Addendum prior to execution. The remaining balance shall be disbursed to the Client within 10 business days of receipt by DCSA.

5. Client Acknowledgments

Client affirms that they are legally entitled to the surplus funds described herein, they have the right to assign their interest in the surplus funds, and that no other party has a superior claim. Client understands they are not required to use DCSA’s services and may file a claim directly with the Clerk of Court. Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless DCSA from any claims, losses, or disputes arising from a third party asserting a right to the same funds, unless caused by DCSA’s negligence or misconduct. Client affirms that they are of sound mind and legal capacity to enter into this Agreement, and that they do so voluntarily, without coercion or undue influence. Client understands the nature and consequences of this Agreement and has had the opportunity to seek independent legal counsel.

6. Exclusivity & Compensation Protection
Client agrees not to engage any third party to assist with the same surplus claim for a period of 180 days from the date of this Agreement. If Client or another party recovers the funds using information or efforts initiated by DCSA, Client agrees DCSA shall still be entitled to its full fee.

7. Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Florida, with venue in Duval County.

👤 Signature & Notary Section

Client Full Name:

_____________________________

Signature:

_____________________________

Date:

_____________________________

Notary Public

State of Florida
County of Duval

Sworn to and subscribed before me on this ___ day of _________, 20,
by ____________________________________________
who is personally known to me or has produced ___________________ as identification.

Notary Signature: ________________________
Seal: [STAMP HERE]

Surplus Funds Buyout Agreement

Prepared by Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA)
For the Purchase of Surplus Funds Rights from a Tax Deed Sale

1. Parties
This Agreement is entered into by Duval County Surplus Authority LLC (DCSA), a private surplus assistance organization, and the undersigned individual(s), hereinafter referred to as “Seller” or “Client.”

2. Purpose
Client affirms that they may be entitled to surplus funds held by the Duval County Clerk of Court as a result of a tax deed sale of property formerly owned by the Client. Client wishes to sell their rights to such funds to DCSA in exchange for a lump sum payment.

3. Property & Surplus Details

• IN RE: ___________________________________________________

• Property Address: _________________________________________________

• Legal Description: _________________________________________________

• Tax Deed Sale Date: ___/___/20___

• Estimated Gross Surplus Amount: $ PLEASE CALL

4. Assignment of Rights
Client hereby irrevocably sells, assigns, and transfers to DCSA all rights, title, and interest in and to any surplus funds resulting from the above-described tax deed sale. DCSA shall have full authority to pursue, claim, and receive said funds in its own name.

5. Purchase Price & Payment Terms
In consideration for this assignment, DCSA agrees to pay Client a total lump sum of $_______________, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein.

Upon execution of this Agreement, DCSA shall pay Client an initial, non-refundable advance of $1,000.00 (“Initial Payment”). This Initial Payment is provided in good faith and shall be retained by Client regardless of whether the remainder of the Buyout Amount is paid.

DCSA shall have 10 business days from the date of this Agreement to conduct final due diligence and confirm the viability of the surplus claim. If DCSA elects to proceed, the remaining balance of the Buyout Amount shall be paid to Client no later than the close of the 10th business day.

If DCSA determines, in its sole discretion, that the claim is not viable or should not be pursued, DCSA may cancel this Agreement by written notice to Client within the 10-day period. In such case, no further payment shall be due, and Client shall retain the Initial Payment as full and final consideration.

6. No Further Claims
Client agrees that upon receipt of the full Buyout Amount (or the Initial Payment if the Agreement is canceled), they shall have no further claim to the surplus funds or any portion thereof. DCSA shall retain all proceeds recovered from the Clerk of Court.

7. Client Acknowledgments / Authority to Assign

- Client affirms they are the rightful party entitled to the surplus funds or authorized to assign such rights.

- Client understands they are not required to sell their rights and may file a claim directly with the Clerk of Court.

- Client acknowledges they have the right to consult with an independent attorney before signing this Agreement.

- Client understands that DCSA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.

Client affirms that they are legally entitled to the surplus funds described herein, and that no other party has a superior claim. Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless DCSA from any claims, losses, or disputes arising from a third party asserting a right to the same funds, unless caused by DCSA’s negligence or misconduct.

8. Exclusivity & Compensation Protection
Client agrees not to engage any third party to assist with the same surplus claim for a period of 180 days from the date of this Agreement. If Client or another party recovers the funds using information or efforts initiated by DCSA, Client agrees DCSA shall still be entitled to its full compensation.

9. Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Florida, with venue in Duval County.

👤 Signature

Client Full Name:

_____________________________

Signature:

_____________________________

Date:

_____________________________

Notary Public
State of Florida
County of Duval / ______________

Sworn to and subscribed before me on this ___ day of _________, _________,
by ____________________________________________
who is personally known to me or has produced ___________________ as identification.*

Notary Signature: ________________________
Seal: [STAMP HERE]

*see attached copy of identification, if applicable

Here's our Good News packet for your review..

DCSA helped me recover funds I thought were lost!

John D.

Great service! I received my unclaimed money quickly.

Sarah K.

★★★★★

★★★★★