Finding unclaimed property belonging to a deceased family member can be both surprising and overwhelming. Unclaimed property can include things like forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts, or even safe deposit box contents. States hold these assets in trust until someone claims them, and many people are unaware that they or their family members have money waiting to be claimed.
If you’ve discovered unclaimed property in the name of a deceased loved one, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next.
1. Confirm the Unclaimed Property
First, you need to make sure the property truly belongs to your deceased relative. Visit official unclaimed property websites like your state’s treasury department which can be found here. It’s also a good idea to search other states your loved one previously worked in or lived in.
Enter the full name of the deceased family member along with any relevant details such as last known addresses or Social Security numbers. This search will help you confirm if the property matches your relative.
2. Determine if You’re Eligible to Claim the Property
Before you begin the claim process, it’s important to know whether you have the right to claim the unclaimed property. Generally, if you are the legal heir, such as a spouse, child, or other close relative, you may be eligible to claim it. However, eligibility can depend on your state’s laws and whether there is a will or estate plan in place.
- With a will: If your loved one left a will, the property usually goes to the beneficiaries named in that document.
- Without a will (intestate): If there’s no will, the state’s intestacy laws will determine who inherits the property, typically starting with spouses and children.
3. Gather the Necessary Documents
Once you’ve determined your eligibility, you’ll need to collect the necessary documentation to prove your relationship to the deceased and your right to claim the property. Commonly required documents include:
- A copy of the death certificate
- Your government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license)
- Proof of your relationship to the deceased (e.g., birth or marriage certificate)
- A copy of the will or legal documentation appointing you as the executor of the estate, if applicable
- Letters of administration or probate paperwork if the estate has already gone through probate
If you’re not the executor of the estate, you may need to work with the appointed executor or administrator.
4. Submit a Claim
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary paperwork, submit your claim to the state’s unclaimed property office. Most states allow you to do this online, but some may require you to mail in paper forms. Be prepared for this step to take some time, as the process for verifying claims can vary depending on the state and complexity of the estate.
You’ll typically need to provide:
- Completed claim forms (available on the unclaimed property website)
- Copies of required documents, such as death certificates and IDs
- Any additional evidence of ownership, like old account statements or insurance policy paperwork
5. Be Patient During the Processing Time
Once your claim is submitted, it may take weeks or even months for the state to process your request. Some claims may require additional investigation, particularly if the ownership or inheritance of the unclaimed property is unclear.
In the meantime, make sure to keep track of any communication with the unclaimed property office, including confirmation emails, reference numbers, or any additional documentation requests.
6. Work with an Attorney if Necessary
In some cases, especially if there are disputes among heirs or complex estate issues, it may be wise to seek help from an attorney who specializes in probate or estate law. They can guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
7. Stay Vigilant for Future Unclaimed Property
Even after you claim the property, there might be other forgotten assets tied to your deceased family member. Periodically check state unclaimed property databases and services like Finderish to see if anything else surfaces. Also, remind other family members to check in case they are entitled to claim other property.
Finding unclaimed property in the name of a deceased family member can be a bittersweet discovery, but it’s important to know that the process for claiming these assets is usually straightforward if you follow the necessary steps. By confirming ownership, gathering documents, and submitting a claim, you can recover property that rightfully belongs to your family. Just be patient and diligent throughout the process, and don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance if needed.