Understanding the Minnesota Property Forfeiture Settlement
If you've lost property in Minnesota due to unpaid property taxes, you might be eligible for financial compensation from a recent class action settlement. This settlement aims to address claims that property owners did not receive fair compensation for properties that were forfeited, especially when the property's value was greater than the taxes and fees owed.
Details of the Lawsuit
The case known as Tyler v. Hennepin County centers on the rights of property owners, their heirs, or other interested parties who have experienced forfeiture due to tax issues. This lawsuit highlights the importance of providing fair compensation for properties taken without sufficient reimbursement for their actual market value.
Who Is Eligible for Compensation?
If you owned or had an interest in a property in Minnesota that was forfeited due to unpaid property taxes, you may qualify as a Class Member in this settlement. The counties eligible for claims include:
- Hennepin County: For properties forfeited between August 16, 2012, and December 31, 2023.
- St. Louis County: For properties forfeited from June 2, 2016, to December 31, 2023.
- All Other Minnesota Counties: For properties forfeited from June 23, 2016, to December 31, 2023.
Interests in real property can encompass ownership stakes, mortgages, or any liens on the property. Even if the original owner has passed away or the entity no longer exists, heirs may still be eligible to make a claim under this settlement.
What Will the Settlement Provide?
Class Members who submit a valid claim can receive up to 90% of the surplus value from their forfeited property. This amount is determined based on either the sales price or the fair market value assessed by local authorities, minus any outstanding taxes and fees. Those holding mineral rights will receive a fixed payment of $300, plus interest. It's important to note that if multiple claims are made for the same property, the total amount distributed cannot exceed 90% of its surplus value. All claims must be submitted and validated before any payments can be made.
Your Rights and Options
As a Class Member, you have several options to protect your rights:
- File a Claim: To qualify for compensation, you must file a claim. You can do this through the website MNTaxForfeitureSettlement.com or by downloading a claim form. Make sure your submission is completed online by 5 p.m. CDT on June 6, 2025, or postmarked by that date.
- Do Nothing, Object, or Exclude Yourself: If you choose not to participate, you won't receive compensation but will still be bound by the Court's decisions. If you wish to object to the settlement, you can do so and may still be eligible for compensation. Any objections must be submitted by November 8, 2024. If you decide to exclude yourself, you retain the right to sue regarding the claims addressed by this settlement, but you will not receive any payment.
For detailed instructions on how to file your claim, object, or opt-out, visit MNTaxForfeitureSettlement.com or call 1-833-709-0093.
Upcoming Court Hearing
A fairness hearing will take place on December 16, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. CT, where the Court will review the settlement. This hearing will be conducted online exclusively at www.Zoom.com. Class members are encouraged to attend as observers and should identify themselves as "Observers" when joining.
During the hearing, the Court will consider any objections and evaluate whether the settlement terms are fair. It will also review attorney fees and expenses related to managing the settlement fund.
Summary of Information
This summary serves as a resource for property owners affected by the forfeiture process. For more detailed information, please visit MNTaxForfeitureSettlement.com, call 1-833-709-0093, or contact Kroll Settlement Administration in writing. Staying informed about your rights and the options available to you under this settlement is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I think I qualify for the settlement?
If you believe you qualify, make sure to file a claim at MNTaxForfeitureSettlement.com before the deadline to ensure you receive any compensation you may be entitled to.
How will the settlement amount be calculated?
The settlement amount will be determined based on the property's surplus value after deducting any owed taxes and fees. Claims will be limited to 90% of this value.
What are my options if I do not want to participate in the settlement?
You can choose to do nothing and be bound by the settlement, object to its terms, or exclude yourself, which allows you to retain the right to pursue your claims individually.
Is the online hearing mandatory to attend?
No, attending the hearing is not mandatory, but it offers an opportunity to understand the proceedings and participate as an observer.
Where can I find more information about the lawsuit?
For more information, you can visit MNTaxForfeitureSettlement.com or contact customer service at 1-833-709-0093.
