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Avoid the Lien Sale

Thousands of NYC homeowners are at risk of losing their homes due to unpaid property taxes, water bills, or other municipal charges. The NYC lien sale process can place homes in jeopardy, but there are ways to prevent it. Homeowners may qualify for property tax exemptions (such as for seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans) or can set up payment plans to avoid their debt being sold in a lien sale. Homeowners must apply for exemptions or payment plans before June 2, 2025. Visit nyc.gov/liensale to learn more.

Help NYC Homeowners Protect Their Homes!

Together, we can ensure that homeowners know their options and take action before it's too late. Help us spread the word about these resources by sharing our graphics and suggested posting text.

Download the toolkit and translations here.

Social Media Toolkit

Blue graphic with faded N Y C map lines in the background and logos for the N Y C Department of Finance (D O F) and the Mayor’s Public Engagement Unit (P E U). Large text reads: “N Y C Property Owners: Avoid the Lien Sale!” White box below reads: “If you have unpaid property taxes or water/sewer charges, your property could be at risk in NYC's Lien Sale.”
Blue graphic with faded N Y C map lines in the background and logos for D O F and P E U. Large text reads: What is a Lien Sale? Light blue box below reads: The City of New York sells your unpaid debt to an authorized buyer. While your property isn't sold, it can be the first step toward foreclosure if not addressed.
Blue graphic with faded N Y C map lines in the background and logos for D O F and P E U. Large text reads: Options to Avoid the Lien Sale: White box below with bullet points: Pay your charges – visit nyc.gov/liensale, Enter a payment plan – flexible options available, Apply for property tax exemptions – senior citizens, disabled homeowners, non-profits, and active duty military may qualify, Easy Exit Program – eligible homeowners can apply to be removed, Emergency Repair Certification – if you only owe HPD emergency repair charges, you may qualify.
Blue graphic with faded N Y C map lines in the background and logos for D O F and P E U. Large text reads: “Take action by June 2, 2025.” Light blue box below reads: “Need help? Call 311 or visit nyc.gov/liensale.”
Blue graphic with faded N Y C map lines in the background and logos for the N Y C Department of Finance (D O F) and the Mayor's Public Engagement Unit (P E U). Header text reads: N Y C Property Owners: Avoid the Lien Sale! Below, a white box reads: If you have unpaid property taxes or water/sewer charges, your property could be at risk in N Y C's Lien Sale. A light blue box underneath reads: Take action by June 2, 2025. with bullet points: Pay your charges, Enter a payment plan, Apply for exemptions, Easy Exit Program for eligible homeowners. A dark blue box at the bottom reads: Need help? Call 311 or visit nyc.gov/liensale.
Blue graphic with faded N Y C map lines in the background and logos for the N Y C Department of Finance (D O F) and the Mayor's Public Engagement Unit (P E U). Header text reads: N Y C Property Owners: Avoid the Lien Sale! Below, a white box reads: If you have unpaid property taxes or water/sewer charges, your property could be at risk in N Y C's Lien Sale. A light blue box underneath reads: Take action by June 2, 2025. with bullet points: Pay your charges, Enter a payment plan, Apply for exemptions, Easy Exit Program for eligible homeowners. A dark blue box at the bottom reads: Need help? Call 311 or visit nyc.gov/liensale.
Palm card with a blue background featuring faded N Y C map lines and logos for the N Y C Department of Finance (D O F) and the Mayor's Public Engagement Unit (P E U). The header reads: Avoid the Lien Sale. A white box below says: If you do not pay your property taxes, water and sewer charges, or other property-related charges, you may be at risk of being included in a lien sale. A light blue box explains: when you are included in the lien sale, the City of New York sells your debt to an authorized buyer. This does not mean that your property has been sold, but if you do not resolve your outstanding debt, the lien sale can be a first step toward foreclosure. Another white box reads: You have several options for avoiding the lien sale. You must take action by: June 2, 2025! A dark blue box at the bottom says: How to get Help: nyc.gov/liensale.

Suggested Posting Text

  • 🚨 NYC homeowners: Protect your home! If you're behind on property taxes or water bills, you may qualify for tax exemptions or payment plans to avoid the lien sale. Take action before June 2! nyc.gov/liensale 🏠 #NYCHomeowners #LienSale
  • 🏡 Don't let unpaid property taxes or water bills put your property at risk! NYC homeowners may qualify for tax exemptions or payment plans to avoid a lien sale. Get help now at nyc.gov/liensale or call 311. 🗓️ Don't miss the June 2 deadline! #NYCHomeowners #LienSale
  • Got property taxes or water charges due? Make a payment. Set up a plan. Keep your home safe. 🔜 Deadline to avoid a lien sale is June 2. Learn more at nyc.gov/liensale or call 311. #NYCHomeowners #LienSale

Suggested Newsletter Text

How to Avoid a Lien Sale

Thousands of NYC homeowners are at risk of a lien sale due to unpaid property taxes, water and sewer charges, or other property-related fees. Fortunately, there are options available to help protect your home. Eligible homeowners can apply for property tax exemptions or set up payment plans to manage outstanding balances.

To avoid a lien sale, homeowners must take action by June 2. Don't wait, visit nyc.gov/liensale for more information, or call 311 for assistance.