Redemption deadlines are strict – missing your deadline means losing your property
City of St. Louis Tax Sale Guide
Property facing tax sale or already sold? Understand your redemption rights, deadlines, and options in the City of St. Louis.
City of St. Louis ≠ St. Louis County
The City of St. Louis is an independent city, separate from St. Louis County. They have different tax offices and different tax sales. Make sure you're working with the correct jurisdiction – contact the City Collector, not the County Collector.
Tax Sale vs. Foreclosure – They're Not the Same
A tax sale is conducted by the City of St. Louis for unpaid property taxes. A foreclosure is conducted by your lender/bank for unpaid mortgage payments. Different processes, different rights, different timelines.Learn about foreclosure →
City of St. Louis Tax Sale Types
Delinquent Land Tax Suit
Before a City parcel is sold, the Collector of Revenue generally brings a delinquent land tax suit. The City describes the tax sale as occurring roughly one year after the suit is filed. This is not the Chapter 140 collector-sale process used in Jefferson and St. Charles Counties.
Redemption: fact-dependent – do not assume one year
Your rights depend on where the parcel sits in the suit and sale process. Confirm with the City Collector of Revenue and a Missouri attorney.
Sheriff's Land Tax Sale
This is a judicial sale – the court orders it and the Sheriff's Office conducts it. The City holds these several times a year rather than once; for 2026 it listed Sales 236 through 240 between May and October, with sale lists typically posted shortly before each sale.
Redemption: depends on the posture of the suit
Do not assume a fixed window. Surplus funds may be available if the property sells above taxes and costs owed – claimed through the Circuit Court.
How to Redeem Your Property
Contact the City Collector
Call (314) 622-4105 or visit City Hall (1200 Market St) to get the exact sale date and calculate your redemption deadline.
Get the Redemption Amount
The Collector will calculate: original sale price + 10% annual interest + subsequent taxes paid by purchaser + fees.
Pay Before the Deadline
Payment goes to the City Collector's office (NOT the tax sale purchaser). Get a receipt and written confirmation of redemption.
Surplus Funds – Money You May Be Owed
If your property was sold at a Land Tax Sale for more than the taxes and costs owed, you may be entitled to the surplus.
You must file a claim with the St. Louis City Circuit Court. These funds don't come automatically – you have to claim them within the statutory period.
City of St. Louis Resources
Neighborhoods We Serve
Tax sale help throughout the City of St. Louis
Already Decided to Sell?
If you're dealing with tax sale in City of St. Louis and have already decided that selling is your best path forward, we can help you understand your options – including timeline, equity, and what to expect. No pressure, just clarity.
Not Sure Where You Stand?
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We are not attorneys or a title company. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal matters, please consult a licensed attorney.