Executor is responsible for notifying the Unclaimed Property — Claim processing varies by state
National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA)
MissingMoney.com (NAUPA-endorsed multi-state search and claim service)
When someone dies, the State Unclaimed Property (Unclaimed Property) must be notified. The executor is responsible for notifying the Unclaimed Property.
Notification deadline: No deadline — most states hold property indefinitely.
Steps for notifying the Unclaimed Property and applying for survivor benefits:
Claim processing varies by state
Unclaimed property is money or assets a business or government holds but cannot return to the owner, such as a forgotten bank account, an uncashed check, an insurance payout, or a security deposit. After a dormancy period, the holder turns it over to the state, which holds it until the owner or their heirs claim it.
Search the unclaimed property database in each state where the person lived or did business, and run a multi-state search at missingmoney.com, the search service endorsed by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators. Searches are free.
Yes. The executor or administrator can claim unclaimed property on behalf of the estate by submitting proof of death and proof of authority to act for the estate. When there is no formal estate, states provide an heir or small-estate claim process.
Most states hold unclaimed property indefinitely, so there is generally no deadline to file a claim. The specific rules and any exceptions are set by each state.
Yes. Searching and claiming are free when done through a state's official unclaimed property program or the NAUPA-endorsed missingmoney.com. Paid finder companies sometimes offer to recover property for a percentage fee, but the same property can be claimed directly at no cost.
Search each state where the deceased lived, worked, or held accounts. missingmoney.com queries most participating states at once and links to each state's official portal; a handful of states run their own separate databases, so check those states directly as well.
A business can have unclaimed property under its own name. The executor or successor searches under the business name in addition to the individual's name, and files a business claim following the state's requirements for proof of authority over the business.
Keep copies of all documents submitted to the Unclaimed Property. Original documents submitted for verification are typically returned after processing.
National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA)
MissingMoney.com (NAUPA-endorsed multi-state search and claim service)