Yellowstone County, Montana Redeemable Tax Deed & Tax Lien Investing Guide

Introduction of the County and About the Article

Yellowstone County lies along the Yellowstone River in south-central Montana. Billings, the county seat, is the largest city in the state and a major hub for retail, finance, energy, and medical services. Because property taxes fund schools, roads, and public services, the county must collect delinquent taxes. When taxes remain unpaid, the county attaches a tax lien to the property and eventually sells the lien or, after the redemption period ends, auctions the property. This guide explains how Yellowstone County handles tax lien assignments and tax deed auctions so investors can participate with confidence.

What is/Brief Overview of County’s Tax Lien/Deed Investing

Montana law allows counties to attach a lien to any real property with delinquent taxes. In Yellowstone County, the treasurer attaches tax liens on the first working day in August. A third party may then purchase the lien by paying the delinquent taxes, interest, and a fee. These liens are sold as assignments through a lottery held in late August. After three years (or two years for undeveloped lots with special improvement assessments), the owner’s redemption period expires and the lienholder may apply for a tax deed. Properties with owner-occupied dwellings are auctioned, while other parcels are conveyed to the lienholder by deed. Successful bidders at the auction must pay the full bid plus costs, and the property is sold as is.

Important Details

Fun Facts About the County

• Yellowstone County is Montana’s most populous county with about 170,000 residents and covers 2,666 square miles.
  
• Billings is the largest city in the state and a key retail, energy, finance, and medical center.
  
• The Yellowstone River gave the county its name; French trappers called it “Roche Jaune” meaning “yellow rock.”
  
• The area experiences four distinct seasons, with July highs near 85°F and January averages around 32°F.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

Outdoor lovers enjoy the Rimrocks, the Yellowstone River, and Pompeys Pillar National Monument. The Western Heritage Center showcases regional history. Billings sits at the junction of Interstates 90 and 94, and the Billings Logan International Airport connects travelers nationwide. Healthcare and social services lead local employment, followed by retail, food service, construction, and wholesale trade. Agriculture remains strong with hay, wheat, and sugar beet production.

Why This County is Ideal for Tax Lien/Deed Investors

• High returns with limited risk – Investors earn about 10% interest per year and a 2% penalty.
  
• Long redemption period – Owners have up to three years to redeem, offering steady returns.
  
• Growing economy – Expanding industries support stable property values.
  
• Easy access – Delinquent lists and assignments are publicly available online.
  
• Flexible opportunities – Unsold liens may be purchased on a first-come basis.
  

Auction Process for Tax Lien/Deed Sales

Each August, the county treasurer attaches liens to delinquent properties. Investors who wish to purchase assignments must send a certified Notice of Pending Assignment and submit their parcel list by the announced deadline. A random lottery is then held, assigning liens one by one in snake-draft order. Any remaining liens become available for over-the-counter purchase.

When a lienholder forecloses, the process moves to a tax deed sale. Properties with owner-occupied dwellings are auctioned; others are deeded directly. The lienholder applies for a tax deed, pays all outstanding costs, and the county publishes the sale notice. The auction occurs within 60 days at the Yellowstone County Courthouse. The opening bid includes taxes, fees, and half of the assessed or appraised value. Winning bidders must pay a 5% or $200 deposit and the remaining balance within 24 hours. Properties are sold as-is without warranties.

How the Auction Works

1. Application and Notice: The lienholder files for a tax deed and the county issues notices.
   
2. Scheduling: Auctions are set within 60 days and posted on the sheriff’s sales page.
   
3. Registration: Bidders register at the courthouse lobby before the sale.
   
4. Bidding: Offers begin at the minimum bid and rise until a winner is declared.
   
5. Payment: The winner pays the required deposit and settles the balance within 24 hours.
   
6. Delivery of Deed: After payment, the sheriff issues the deed. Buyers should later complete a quiet title action.
   

Maximum Potential Returns and Expected Returns

Investors earn monthly interest of 5/6 of 1%, about 10% annually, plus a 2% penalty. Interest accrues until redemption or sale. With a three-year redemption window, returns may exceed 30% if redeemed near the deadline. If the lienholder receives a deed and resells the property, profits can be higher. Actual returns depend on property condition and resale value.

Open to All Investors / Foreign Investor Participation

Both local and international investors can join Yellowstone County’s tax lien lottery and tax deed auctions. Non-resident investors follow the same mail-in and payment steps as locals. Payments can be made by cash, cashier’s check, money order, or verified personal check. There is no cap on the number of liens held. Because of the county’s steady interest rate and long redemption period, it has become popular among national investors seeking consistent returns.

Importance of Due Diligence

What Due Diligence Entails

Review the delinquent list, study parcel maps, and verify assessed values. Check zoning, access, and occupancy. Owner-occupied properties go to auction; others are deeded directly. Confirm any environmental or legal issues and consult professionals before purchase.

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Ignoring research can lead to buying landlocked or encumbered parcels. Mortgages or special assessments may survive the deed. Some properties may be unbuildable or worth less than the taxes owed. Always confirm property details and prepare for post-sale legal steps like quiet title actions.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Liens/Deeds

After the lottery ends, remaining liens are available for direct purchase. Buyers must still send a certified Notice of Pending Assignment and wait the required period before payment. Payment is accepted by cash, check, money order, or cashier’s check. Once processed, the buyer receives an assignment certificate. OTC purchases eliminate bidding competition and carry the same interest rate and redemption period as regular assignments.

Why Yellowstone County is a Top Choice for Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Yellowstone County anchors eastern Montana’s economy with strong healthcare, construction, and trade sectors. Energy facilities, new housing, and transportation projects fuel local growth. The fixed 10% interest rate, three-year redemption window, and modest fees make investing accessible and predictable.

Real Estate Market Overview

The median home value is around $317,600, and most residents own their homes. Property values and household incomes continue to rise. Commutes are short, and population growth is steady, supporting housing demand. Proximity to highways and the airport enhances resale potential for investors.

Conclusion

Yellowstone County offers stable tax lien and tax deed opportunities supported by a growing economy and clear procedures. The predictable interest rate, extended redemption period, and modest costs make it appealing for investors seeking reliable returns. After redemption ends, auctions are conducted publicly, ensuring transparency. With sound research and preparation, Yellowstone County remains one of Montana’s strongest options for steady, long-term investment in property tax assets.

Pro Tips

• Download and track the delinquent list early.
  
• Prioritize parcels carefully before entering the lottery.
  
• Attend the lottery in person to finalize payments quickly.
  
• Budget for fees like sheriff’s costs and quiet title expenses.
  
• Consider hiring a local agent or attorney for logistics.
  

FAQs for Yellowstone County Tax Lien/Deed Investors

Useful Links

• Montana Tax Liens: How to Make Money with Minimal Risk
• Tax Lien Certificates Explained: A Comprehensive Overview
• Step-by-Step Guide to Beginner Tax Lien Investing

Need a Hand?

Tax lien and tax deed investing can be rewarding when done right. If you’d like guidance, explore our free resources and Auction Calendar. To learn more or discuss strategies, book a call with us. We’re here to help you invest confidently in Yellowstone County and beyond.

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About Dustin Hahn

Dustin Hahn is a Tax Lien & Deed investor with over 22 years of experience and hundreds of deals under his belt. He created Tax Lien School.com to help you buy Tax Deeds up to 90% off mortgage free and earn up to 36% ROI with Tax Liens. This site was voted the “Most Useful Resource” for new investors. Dustin’s YouTube Channel is the #1 Channel on Tax Liens & Deeds with over 98,000 Subscribers and 3600 videos to help you start. “The Best Time To Start Real Estate Investing Was 20 Years Ago, The Second Best Time Is TODAY!”

20+yrs

5–10deals/mo

2009TLS founded