Which U.S. States Allow Non-Private Investigators to Claim Tax Sales Surplus Funds for a Finder’s Fee?

Question from George, Which U.S. States Allow Non-Private Investigators to Claim Tax Sales Surplus Funds for a Finder’s Fee?

Answer from AI:

In the United States, the laws regarding who can help others claim their tax sales surplus funds and receive a finder’s fee vary by state. Some states require a person to be a licensed private investigator or attorney to perform this service, while others do not.

States That Do Not Require a Private Investigator License

While it’s important to check with each state’s specific laws, as of the time of writing, the following states generally do not require a person to be a licensed private investigator to help others claim their tax sales surplus funds:

• Arizona
• Colorado
• Georgia
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Michigan
• Missouri
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• South Carolina

In these states, individuals can typically act as “finders” or “surplus recovery agents” without needing a private investigator license. However, they may still need to comply with other regulations, such as obtaining a business license or adhering to specific contract requirements.

Legal Considerations

Even in states where a private investigator license is not required, there may be other legal considerations to keep in mind. For example, some states limit the amount of the finder’s fee that can be charged. Others may require the finder to enter into a written contract with the person they are helping.

It’s crucial to consult with a legal professional or the relevant state agency to understand the specific requirements in your state.

Resources

For more information on the laws in your state, you can visit your state’s Department of Revenue or equivalent agency’s website. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) also provides general information on tax sales and surplus funds.

Legal Advice

This information is intended to provide a general understanding of the topic and should not be used as a substitute for legal advice. Laws can change, and they can also be interpreted differently depending on the specifics of a situation. Therefore, if you are considering helping others claim their tax sales surplus funds for a finder’s fee, it’s recommended that you consult with a legal professional to ensure you are complying with all relevant laws and regulations.