Alaska Tax Sale Laws — Investor Guide

The government transfers the deed directly to the winning bidder at auction.

Redemption Period

1 year from sale date

Max Interest Rate

N/A

IRS Lien Survives

Yes — verify before bidding

Foreclosure Required

Quiet Title Required

Yes

Counties Covered

29 counties

Quiet Title Required in Alaska

Before a title insurer will issue a policy on a tax deed property in Alaska, you'll need to complete a quiet title action.

$1,500–$5,000

Legal Fees

6–18 mo

Timeline

How Tax Sales Work in Alaska

Alaska boroughs and cities conduct tax deed sales after property becomes delinquent. The process varies by borough/municipality. The owner typically has 1 year to redeem before the borough may convey the property. The winning bidder receives a borough or municipal deed. Quiet title is recommended. IRS liens survive if the IRS was not properly notified.

Quick Due Diligence Checklist for Alaska

Verify property is still on the auction list within 48 hours of sale (redemptions happen until the last minute)

Check for federal IRS liens — they survive the tax sale in Alaska

Search for HOA liens and municipal code violations — these may survive in some counties

Budget for foreclosure costs — required in Alaska to convert a lien to deed

Budget for quiet title action — required in Alaska before title insurance will issue

Drive the property or use street view to confirm structure exists and is accessible

Verify assessed value vs. back taxes owed — if taxes exceed assessed value, it may be a junk property

Source: AS §29.45.310 et seq. · Verified: January 2025 · Always verify current laws directly with the Alaska state statutes and your county treasurer. This is not legal or investment advice.

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