Real Estate Glossary

Tax certificate

/glossary/tax-certificate
A document issued at a tax-lien sale that gives the holder the right to collect delinquent property taxes plus interest (typically 12-18%). If the homeowner doesn't redeem within the statutory period, the certificate holder can foreclose.

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Reviewed by John Quigley · Founder, BuyHousesInCash · Last updated May 2026

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