Missouri 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

10% / year

IRS Lien Survives

Yes — verify before bidding

Foreclosure Required

Quiet Title Required

Yes

Counties Covered

115 counties

Quiet Title Required in Missouri

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

$1,500–$5,000

Legal Fees

6–18 mo

Timeline

How Tax Sales Work in Missouri

Missouri is a tax deed state. The county holds a sheriff's tax sale, and the winning bidder receives a sheriff's deed. The original owner has 1 year to redeem by paying the purchase price plus 10% interest and costs. After the redemption period expires, the deed becomes fully marketable though quiet title action is strongly recommended. IRS liens survive if the IRS was not properly notified.

Quick Due Diligence Checklist for Missouri

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 Missouri

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

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

Budget for quiet title action — required in Missouri 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: Mo. Rev. Stat. §140.340, §140.405 · Verified: January 2025 · Always verify current laws directly with the Missouri state statutes and your county treasurer. This is not legal or investment advice.

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