Rule 651.When Execution Is Not Satisfied
Last verified June 28, 2026
In one sentenceRule 651 directs the officer, when the property levied on does not sell for enough to satisfy the execution, to proceed anew, as in the first instance, to make the residue.
Full Text of Rule 651
When the property levied upon does not sell for enough to satisfy the execution, the officer shall proceed anew, as in the first instance, to make the residue.
End
Plain-English Summary
Rule 651 handles a shortfall. When the property levied upon does not sell for enough to satisfy the execution, the officer proceeds anew, as in the first instance, to make the residue — levying on more of the defendant's property until the judgment is satisfied or the writ is returned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if an execution sale doesn't cover the judgment in Texas?
The officer levies anew on more property to make up the residue (Rule 651).
Does the creditor need a new execution if one levy doesn't cover the debt in Texas?
No. Rule 651 has the officer proceed anew on the same execution, as in the first instance, to make up the residue.
Is there a limit on how many times an officer can levy under one execution?
Rule 651 doesn't set one — the officer keeps proceeding anew until the judgment is satisfied or the writ's life runs out.
Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the
Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 651), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov).
Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. ·
Official source
Also known as: when execution is not satisfiedexecution residueTRCP 651levy again after shortfalladditional levy unsatisfied judgment