Public Auctions Common Questions

1. How can I find out when there is an auction?


2. Can I view the property before the sale?


3. Can I mail in a bid?


4. Do I have to pay sales tax?


5. Do I get a receipt for the property purchased at the auction?


6. What are guaranteed funds?


7. How do I know if there is a lien on the property?

1. How can I find out when there is an auction?

   We post upcoming auctions on our website, and you can sign up for email alerts to receive auction notifications. We use the same email list for announcing any cancellations. Auctions are subject to cancellation without notice, but we make every effort to keep our sale postings current.

2. Can I view the property before the sale?

   We attempt to post photos of the property on our website whenever possible. In addition, many auctions allow you to view the property at scheduled times. See the specific Notice of Sale document for more information.

3. Can I mail in a bid?

   Some auctions allow mail-in bids. See the specific Notice of Sale document posted on our website to see if mail-in bids are accepted.

4. Do I have to pay sales tax?

   Depending on what type of property is sold at the auction, you may need to pay sales tax on the item. See the specific Notice of Sale document for more details. If you purchase a vehicle, you are responsible for paying sales tax when you register it.

5. Do I get a receipt for the property purchased at the auction?

   Yes, the winning bidder at auction receives a receipt. If you purchase a vehicle, you also receive instructions on how to register the vehicle when the auction is finished.

6. What are guaranteed funds?

   Cash, Cashier's Check or Money Order. Some auctions require you make your payment in guaranteed funds. See the specific Notice of Sale document for more information.

7. How do I know if there is a lien on the property?

   If we are aware of any debt owed on the property, we will disclose that information at the auction prior to the auction opening.

Applicable Laws and Rules

This document provides statements or interpretations of the following laws and regulations enacted as of October 22, 2021: Secs. 71.91, 71.61, 73.03 and 77.52, Wis. Stats.

Laws enacted and in effect after this date, new administrative rules, and court decisions may change the interpretations in this document. Guidance issued prior to this date, that is contrary to the information in this document is superseded by this document, according to sec. 73.16(2)(a), Wis. Stats.

The department welcomes your input on our guidance. Submit comments on this guidance document.

Guidance Document Number: 100037

October 22, 2021