In this article, Unclaimed money is any financial asset that has been abandoned or forgotten by its rightful owner for a certain period of time. In Maryland, unclaimed money can include bank accounts, wages, dividends, insurance benefits, savings deposit box content, and stocks.
The Comptroller of Maryland is responsible for holding and returning unclaimed money to the owners or their legitimate heirs. According to the Comptroller’s website, Maryland currently holds over $1.6 billion in unclaimed money and property, with 1.3 million accounts worth more than $1.6 billion in cash and property.
If you think you may have unclaimed money in Maryland, here are some steps you can follow to claim it:
Step 1: Search Online
The easiest way to find out if you have unclaimed money in Maryland is to search online at the [Maryland Unclaimed Property] website. You can enter your first and last names in the appropriate boxes and click on the Submit button. You can also search by business name or property ID number.
The website will show you a list of possible matches, along with the amount, type, and holder of the unclaimed money. You can also check the status of your claim online if you have already filed one.
Step 2: File a Claim
If you find a match that belongs to you, you can file a claim online or by mail. To file a claim online, you will need to create an account and provide some information to verify your identity and ownership of the property. You may also need to upload some documents, such as a copy of your driver’s license, social security card, or proof of address. To file a claim by mail, you will need to print and fill out a claim form and mail it along with the required documents to the Comptroller’s office. The address is:
- Comptroller of Maryland
- Unclaimed Property Unit
- 301 West Preston Street
- Baltimore, MD 21201-2385
Step 3: Receive Your Money
After you file your claim, the comptroller’s office will review it and contact you if they need any additional information or documentation. The processing time may vary depending on the complexity and volume of claims.
Once your claim is approved, you will receive a check in the mail for the amount of your unclaimed money. There is no fee or charge for claiming your money.
FAQ: The Ultimate Guide to Your Questions
Q: How long does it take to get my money?
A: The Comptroller’s office tries to process claims as quickly as possible, but it may take several weeks or months depending on the type and amount of property involved. You can check the status of your claim online at any time.
Q: How do I know if I have unclaimed money in other states?
A: You can search for unclaimed money in other states by visiting the [National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA)] (3) website. NAUPA is an organization that represents state unclaimed property programs across the country. You can also search for unclaimed money from federal agencies, such as the IRS, Social Security Administration, or Veterans Affairs, by visiting [USA.gov] (4).
Q: What happens if I don’t claim my money?
A: Unclaimed money in Maryland does not expire or become the property of the state. The owners or their legitimate heirs can claim the funds at any time. There is no statute of limitations. However, it is advisable to claim your money as soon as possible to avoid losing track of it or having it transferred to another state or agency.
Q: What if I have a question or problem with my claim?
A: If you have any questions or issues regarding your claim, you can contact the Comptroller’s office by phone at 410-767-1700 or toll-free at 1-800-782-7383. You can also email them at unclaim@comp.state.md.us2.