The Easy Way to FInd Unclaimed Money
Free unclaimed money searches were a secret that was known to very few people, but with time and advent of internet, people are becoming aware of the benefits their lost money can bring them. It is because of the dedicated databases maintained by the state that people are getting filtered and error free information within a single click of their mouse. The state believe that despite of the application process made simpler with time, it is because of the lack of knowledge among people regarding unclaimed property that has created low return rates.
As per the state laws, the financial institutions, like banks, have to report those properties or assets that have been lying idle for more than a year, or any time that has been specified by the state itself. The properties must be inactive and the owner details must be unknown so that the properties can be declared as unclaimed after which they are handed over to the state.
It is because of the alarming growth of unclaimed assets in different regions that the state and federal agencies, who are managing these funds, are in great trouble. The state authorities are trying their very best to create a simple and robust platform for the people so that they get motivated and come in large numbers to claim what they think is theirs. It is because of the state’s continuous efforts that the unclaimed money search is easy for everyone now.
Unclaimed money or property can exist in many different types. The term “unclaimed money” does not necessarily mean simply cash. Here are certain examples of unclaimed money forms:
Traveler’s Checks
Gift certificates
Royalty payments
Checking and savings accounts
Safe deposit boxes
Undistributed wages
Life insurance policy proceeds
Stock certificates or accounts, bonds, mutual fund accounts
The first step in searching property is to identify the area of residence a the time of loss of property or abandonment. It after finalizing the area of residence, the actual application process can begin. Most of the states maintain a dedicated website where you can search for property. This database is updated by the states on a regular basis so that you can find the latest information with ease.
To improve search effectiveness, the best thing to do will be to list down all the states you resided or worked in until the current date. This will include writing down the website and contact details of the financial controller of the state. The best website to find all the required information is the official website of NAUPA, which is also known by the name of National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrator’s. By entering your first and last name, the search process can be initiated and after getting the result, you have to match all the details against your name.
After searching, you have to fill the online claim form, which is very simple to fill with your personal details. Certain documents are also mentioned on the site that the claimant has to produce before the state agency to prove his identity to the state. By following these steps, you will be well on your way to finding all of your unclaimed money.
Unclaimed money has become a recent phenomenon, and burden, discovered by the federal and state governments. This money has increased greatly over time, with not enough of the pubic aware of its existence. Currently, the federal and state governments are housing over $40 billion in the form of unclaimed money and unclaimed property.
