Elderly homeowners, especially those who live alone or face cognitive decline, are disproportionately affected by surplus fund loss. They may not receive or understand court notices. When these homeowners pass away, their estates are often never opened—meaning funds sit unclaimed for years.
The Foreclosure Focus urges elder law attorneys, public guardians, and healthcare providers to integrate surplus fund checks into estate planning and end-of-life conversations. Seniors should not lose decades of equity due to avoidable gaps in notice and representation.