If you’ve been a victim of deed fraud and successfully recovered your property through court, you may be able to get back the Realty Transfer Tax that the criminal paid. A law passed in January 2026 helps victims recover financially after fraud.
Who qualifies
You can request a refund if:
- Someone stole your property by recording a fraudulent deed.
- City Realty Transfer Tax was paid on the fraudulent deed.
- You obtained a court order voiding the fraudulent deed.
- The court order specifically directs the Department of Revenue to issue you a refund.
- You file your petition within three years of the court order date.
How much you can recover
Victims can receive a refund for the full amount of Realty Transfer Tax paid, minus the portion to the state.
This won’t cover all the costs of fighting fraud, but it can help.
How to request a refund
To request your refund, you need a certified copy of your court order and must file a petition with the Department of Revenue.