The life of a tax certificate is how many years?

• A. 5 years
• B. 7 years
• C. 9 years
• D. 12 years

Answer: (B)

In Florida, a tax certificate represents a lien for delinquent property taxes and has a set redemption window. The life of that certificate is seven years from the date of sale. During those seven years, the property owner can redeem the property by paying the back taxes plus interest and penalties, and the certificate holder gets repaid with interest if redeemed. If the certificate remains unredeemed after seven years, the holder may pursue a tax deed, which can transfer ownership of the property. That seven-year redemption period is why the correct answer is seven years.