In this article, Unclaimed money refers to funds or property left with individuals or organizations for an indeterminate length of time without contact from its rightful owner, which could include bank accounts, checks, gift cards, wages, or insurance policies that remain uncovered and unaccounted for.
When no trace can be made back to its rightful owner, the holder is required by state government regulations to report and transfer said funds back into state custody, where state agents attempt to locate and return them home again.
Mississippi stands out among states for having a program to assist its citizens in claiming unclaimed funds. The State Treasury of Mississippi administers the Mississippi Unclaimed Property Act, which sets forth rules regarding reporting, holding, and returning unclaimed money within its borders. Within just one year alone, more than $27 million of unclaimed money had been returned by them to citizens.
Are you searching for unclaimed money in Mississippi? Below are a few steps that can help:
Step 1: Search for your unclaimed money online
To easily search for unclaimed funds in Mississippi, the easiest way is through the State Treasury’s online search tool at Treasury.MS.gov/UnclaimedMoney (click here or Treasury.MS.gov/UnclaimedMoney). Search your name, business name, or property ID while narrowing your search by entering city or zip codes as filters.
The online search tool will return a list of potential matches for your query, including details such as property type, amount, holder name, and last known address for each one. If one belongs to you specifically, simply click “Claim” to initiate the claim process and start your claim immediately.
Step 2: Verify your identity and ownership
After clicking “Claim,” you will be required to provide information to validate your identity and ownership of unclaimed funds. This may include providing personal data such as name, address, phone number, email address, and social security number, as well as answering security questions based on public records.
Depending on the nature and amount of unclaimed money you own and its type and value, you may also need to submit documents as proof of identity and ownership. Some examples include:
- A copy of your driver’s license or state ID card
- A copy of your birth certificate or passport
- A copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
- A copy of a utility bill or bank statement showing your current address
- A copy of a check or statement from the holder of the unclaimed money
- A copy of a death certificate or probate document (if claiming on behalf of a deceased owner)
You can upload these documents online using the e-claims system or mail them to the State Treasury.
Step 3: Receive Your Unclaimed Money
After submitting your claim with all necessary information and documents, the State Treasury will review it and assess whether you qualify. If it is approved, a confirmation email and check will be mailed directly to you, although processing times may differ depending on the complexity and volume of claims submitted.
If your claim is denied or requires additional information, you will receive an email outlining why and instructions on how to move forward. Alternatively, the e-claims system allows you to monitor its status online, or you can call the State Treasury directly for updates.
FAQ: The Ultimate Guide to Your Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about finding and claiming unclaimed money in Mississippi:
Q: What is the dormancy period for unclaimed money in Mississippi?
A: A dormancy period refers to the length of time in which an owner or holder of unclaimed funds should hold onto unclaimed money before reporting and transferring it back to the state for reporting or transfer; it varies depending on what kind of property this is; bank accounts usually have five-year dormancies, while travelers’ checks have 15-year dormancies.
Q: How long does the state keep unclaimed money?
A: The state will hold unclaimed money until its rightful owner comes forward to claim it, with no fees or interest charged for keeping it.
Q: How can I keep my money from becoming unclaimed?
A: In order to prevent your money from becoming unclaimed, it is essential that you remain aware of all financial accounts and assets you own, update contact information with them regularly, cash or deposit any checks that come your way as quickly as possible, respond promptly when correspondence from holders of your funds comes your way, and create a comprehensive list of your accounts and assets to share with family or trusted friends should something happen to you.
Q: Can I claim unclaimed money on behalf of someone else?
A: Yes, as long as you have legal permission or authority to do so. For instance, unclaimed funds could belong to:
1. An individual with whom you share parenting or conservatorship responsibilities.
2. A deceased person for whom you serve as executor or administrator (heir).
3. An organization for which you serve as owner, officer, or authorized agent.
Proof of your relationship or authority is needed in order to claim unclaimed money on behalf of another.
Q: How can I contact the State Treasury of Mississippi?
A: If you have any questions or concerns about finding and claiming unclaimed money in Mississippi, you can contact the State Treasury by:
1. Phone: 601-359-3600
2. Email: Unclaimed@treasury.ms.gov
3. Mail: P.O. Box 138, Jackson, MS 39205
4. Website: Treasury.MS.gov