Legal Definitions - tax certificate

A tax certificate is a legal document issued to the buyer of a property at a tax sale. It certifies the sale and gives the buyer the right to a tax deed and possession of the property after the redemption period expires. If the property is redeemed, the tax certificate becomes void.

For example, if John buys a property at a tax sale and receives a tax certificate, he has the right to a tax deed and possession of the property after the redemption period ends. However, if the previous owner pays the taxes and redeems the property, the tax certificate becomes void, and John loses his right to the property.