Laws of Escheat

Laws of escheat are legal statutes that govern the process by which unclaimed or abandoned property is transferred to the state when no legal Heirs, Beneficiaries, or rightful owners can be identified.

Escheat laws vary by state and are designed to prevent property from lying dormant and unused, ensuring that it benefits the public instead of remaining unclaimed.

Key aspects of laws related to escheat include:

Unclaimed Property: Escheat laws typically apply to various types of unclaimed property, including financial assets like bank accounts, stocks, bonds, insurance policies, and tangible assets such as real estate or personal belongings.

Abandonment Period: Each jurisdiction defines a specific period of time during which property must be unclaimed before it becomes subject to escheat. This period can range from a few years to decades.

Notice Requirements: Prior to the transfer of property to the state, authorities usually make efforts to locate the rightful owners or heirs. This may involve publishing notices in newspapers, sending letters to the last known address, and using online databases.

Reporting and Compliance: Entities holding unclaimed property, such as financial institutions and businesses, are often required to report these assets to the state's unclaimed property division. Failure to comply with reporting requirements can lead to penalties.

State Custody: Once property is deemed abandoned and the abandonment period has passed, it is transferred to the state's custody. The state then becomes the custodian of the property until rightful owners come forward.

Recovery by Owners: Owners or their legal heirs can usually claim the abandoned property from the state's unclaimed property division. Procedures for claiming vary by jurisdiction and often involve providing proof of ownership.

Exemptions: Certain types of property may be exempt from escheat, such as property held in Trust, property with a known rightful owner even if they are not immediately locatable, and property subject to legal disputes.

Record keeping and Audits: States may conduct audits of businesses and institutions to ensure compliance with escheat laws and reporting requirements.

It's important to note that escheat laws and regulations vary widely between states and it's therefore important to consult with a Probate Attorney if the property is challenging to recover.

If you believe you may have unclaimed property or assets, it's advisable to check with your state's unclaimed property division to learn about the specific rules and procedures for claiming such property.