How to get unclaimed property? - GB Times (2024)

How to Get Unclaimed Property: A Step-by-Step Guide

Unclaimed property refers to assets that have been left unclaimed or abandoned by their rightful owners. This can include everything from savings accounts and stocks to insurance policies and utility deposits. With millions of dollars in unclaimed property waiting to be claimed, it’s essential to know how to get unclaimed property. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to get unclaimed property and what you need to do to claim it.

What is Unclaimed Property?

Before we dive into the process of getting unclaimed property, it’s essential to understand what unclaimed property is. Unclaimed property is any asset that has been left unclaimed or abandoned by its rightful owner. This can include:

• Savings accounts: Savings accounts, checking accounts, and other deposit accounts that have been inactive for a certain period.
• Stocks and bonds: Stocks, bonds, and other securities that have been left unclaimed or abandoned.
• Insurance policies: Life insurance policies, health insurance policies, and other types of insurance policies that have been left unclaimed or abandoned.
• Utility deposits: Utility deposits, such as electricity, gas, and water deposits, that have been left unclaimed or abandoned.
• Credit balances: Credit balances from old cell phone bills, credit card balances, and other types of credit.

How to Get Unclaimed Property

Getting unclaimed property is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Search for Unclaimed Property

The first step in getting unclaimed property is to search for it. You can search for unclaimed property in the following ways:

• State websites: Most states have websites where you can search for unclaimed property. You can visit the website of the state where you live or where you think the property may be located.
• National databases: There are several national databases that allow you to search for unclaimed property. Some popular options include MissingMoney.com and Unclaimed.org.
• Government agencies: You can also contact government agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the Social Security Administration (SSA), to see if they have any unclaimed property in your name.

Step 2: Verify Your Identity

Once you’ve found a potential match for unclaimed property, you’ll need to verify your identity. This is an important step to ensure that you’re the rightful owner of the property. You’ll typically need to provide:

• Identification documents: You’ll need to provide identification documents, such as a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity.
• Proof of address: You may need to provide proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, to verify your address.

Step 3: Fill Out the Claim Form

Once you’ve verified your identity, you’ll need to fill out a claim form. The claim form will ask for information about the property, such as:

• Property details: You’ll need to provide details about the property, such as the account number, policy number, or other identifying information.
• Owner information: You’ll need to provide information about yourself, such as your name, address, and Social Security number.

Step 4: Submit the Claim Form

Once you’ve filled out the claim form, you’ll need to submit it to the appropriate agency or company. You can typically submit the form online or by mail.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

After you’ve submitted the claim form, you’ll need to wait for processing. This can take several weeks or months, depending on the agency or company. You’ll need to be patient and wait for the outcome.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you get unclaimed property:

• Be patient: Getting unclaimed property can take time, so be patient and don’t get discouraged if it takes a while.
• Double-check your information: Make sure you provide accurate information on the claim form to avoid delays or rejections.
• Follow up: If you haven’t received a response within a few weeks, follow up with the agency or company to see the status of your claim.
• Check with family members: If you’re having trouble finding unclaimed property, check with family members to see if they have any information.

Conclusion

Getting unclaimed property is a relatively straightforward process. By following the steps outlined above and being patient, you can potentially claim millions of dollars in unclaimed property. Remember to be thorough in your search, verify your identity, and provide accurate information on the claim form. With these tips and tricks, you can increase your chances of successfully claiming unclaimed property.

Table: Unclaimed Property Types

Table: Unclaimed Property Search Tips

Table: Unclaimed Property Claim Form Requirements

Table: Unclaimed Property Claim Form Submission