You can release them once the period for registering a lien has expired, as long as no one has registered a lien. The period to register a lien expires 60 days following the completion (or substantial completion) of work on a project. However, an exact answer for when the “clock starts ticking” on the 60-day deadline can be complicated. Failing to hold back the funds for the correct period of time can make you liable for the amount of the holdback, so make sure to obtain professional advice before releasing the monies.