Urgent Alert: NYC Tax Lien Sale Looms on Erev Shavuos – Act Now to Protect Your Property
A critical deadline is fast approaching for many property owners in New York City, particularly within our community, as the annual Tax Lien Sale is scheduled to take place on Monday, June 2nd, the first day of Shavuos. Many property owners may be entirely unaware that outstanding property taxes, water and sewer charges, and other property-related fees could put their homes or institutions at significant risk.
The Tax Lien Sale does not mean your property is immediately sold. Instead, the City of New York sells the outstanding debt on your property to an authorized third-party buyer. This buyer then gains the right to collect the owed amount, along with additional fees and interest. While this is not a direct sale of the property, it is a crucial first step that can lead to foreclosure and the potential loss of the property if the debt is not resolved.
Recognizing the severe implications of this sale, especially with Yom Tov coinciding with the deadline, the Crown Heights Jewish Community Council (CHJCC) has been working tirelessly to alert community members. Chana Baron, a dedicated staff member at the CHJCC, has been meticulously researching the “10-day list” of properties potentially included in the sale, proactively reaching out to owners to inform them of the looming threat.
Her efforts have already yielded vital results. Several community members have expressed profound gratitude for the heads-up. In one instance, a community member contacted about his parents’ home was unaware of the notices and swiftly took action to resolve the issue. Similarly, a Crown Heights Shul discovered one of their properties was slated for inclusion in the sale and was able to address the outstanding debt. Even a long-time resident was surprised to learn that an unpaid building code violation fine had jeopardized his home.
With Yom Tov on Monday, your last chance to take care of any outstanding debt before the lien sale is this coming Friday, May 30th.
Important Information and Steps You Can Take:
- Quick Exit Application: For couples earning under $107,000 annually without any other property, the City offers a “quick exit” application. This can provide an additional year to make payment arrangements and avoid inclusion in the sale.
- Payment Arrangements: All property owners have the option to make payment arrangements directly with the Department of Finance (DOF) or the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to settle outstanding charges.
How to Check if Your Property is at Risk:
The 10-day notice with the list of threatened properties for Brooklyn is available online. It is crucial to check this list immediately if you have any outstanding property-related debts.
You can access the list here: https://www.nyc.gov/assets/
If your property is listed, or if you have any concerns about your property’s status, please do not delay! Contact Rabbi Eli Cohen at the Crown Heights Jewish Community Council immediately for more information and assistance.
Rabbi Eli Cohen: 718-778-8808 extension 7736
This is a time-sensitive matter that requires immediate attention. Act now to protect your property and ensure a peaceful Yom Tov.
