Claims FAQ

How can I claim funds held by the state?: You can claim your property online by clicking Search Now, OR you can choose to print the Mail-In Claim Form (RTF), and send your claim by US Mail to Office of the State Treasurer, Attn: Unclaimed Property, 39 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0039.

How can I find out the dollar amount of the funds?: We do not disclose dollar amounts for unclaimed funds until we receive proof of ownership or entitlement.

How long will it take to receive my funds?: Due to a high volume of claims activity and the significant work done to ensure that all funds are returned to the rightful owners, please allow at least 90 days for your claim to be reviewed. If additional documentation is required, you will be notified in writing after our review is complete. Please note that all claims involving stock and estates take longer.

Will I receive interest on the funds?: By law, we only pay interest on interest bearing items, such as savings accounts, for a period of up to ten years from the date we receive the property. We also pay dividends that accrue on stock shares while we hold the stock.

How do I know if I am entitled to funds listed in my name?: The easiest way to determine if you are the person listed is to check the address associated with the funds. Check to see if you lived or did business at the address. We cannot list the social security number because it is considered private under the law.

What if I cannot prove the address of record?: Make sure that you search your old records for proof that you once used the address of record. For instance, look at old 1040s or W2s. Most people keep these types of records much longer than other types of bills or receipts. Once you have concluded that you have nothing available to help you prove the address of record, mail in the completed claim form and attach a note indicating your conclusion.

What if my name has changed?: If your name is now different from what appears on our database, you must provide some legal documentation to verify the name change (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, etc.).

What if I cannot prove ownership of the funds?: Not all items require proof of ownership. If you have the original document (for example: a check, a passbook, a bond), we recommend sending us a copy of it - we may require the original at a later date. If not, complete the claim form and return it to us. If further documentation is required, you will be advised in writing.

How are joint accounts or accounts with multiple owners handled?: One of the owners may sign and submit a claim form and provide all of the necessary documentation in order to substantiate a claim. However, the refund will be made payable to all parties listed on the account. If there has been a change in circumstances (e.g., death, divorce, etc.) any available documentation confirming the change should be submitted with the claim.

What if the owner is deceased?: Complete and submit an Affidavit and Agreement Supporting Claim for a Deceased Person. Please note checks are made payable to the estate of the deceased owner.

Who are considered immediate heirs?: Maine Probate law (17) defines heirs as follows: "Heirs" means those persons, including the surviving spouse or surviving registered domestic partner, who are entitled under the statutes of intestate succession to the property of a decedent. [2003, c. 672, §3 (amd).]

Are any of the funds I receive as a result of a successful claim taxable?: We are required by the Federal Government to report certain types of payments to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If your payment includes interest paid to you, you will receive an IRS 1099INT form. If you received cash as the result of securities claim, you will receive an IRS 1099B form. If your payment included any accrued cash dividends on securities, you will receive an IRS 1099MISC form. If you have any questions regarding your tax liability, please consult with an appropriate tax specialist. All IRS information tax reports are mailed during the month of January, following the end of the current calendar year.

Where can I find unclaimed funds in other states?: Search nationally at http://www.missingmoney.com or go to each state's website individually.