Step‑by‑Step Guide: How to Find Unclaimed Assets in Arkansas

Finding unclaimed money in Arkansas is often easier than people expect. Many residents discover they have forgotten bank accounts, utility deposits, old paychecks, or insurance refunds waiting for them with the state.

This guide explains, in plain English, how to search for and claim unclaimed property in Arkansas, what to expect from the process, and how to avoid common mistakes and scams.

HowToGetAssistance.org is an independent information site. It is not a government agency and cannot process claims or check your status. This guide is here to help you understand the typical steps so you can use the official Arkansas channels with confidence.

What Are “Unclaimed Assets” in Arkansas?

“Unclaimed assets” (also called unclaimed property or unclaimed funds) are money or financial assets that belong to you but were never delivered, often because:

• A business lost track of your current address
• An account was inactive for several years
• A check was never cashed
• An owner passed away and heirs were never found

In Arkansas, these assets are usually handled under the state’s unclaimed property program, managed by a state-level office such as the Arkansas Auditor of State or another designated agency.

Common types of unclaimed assets include:

• Bank accounts (checking, savings, CDs)
• Uncashed checks (payroll, refunds, vendor checks)
• Utility deposits (electric, water, cable, internet)
• Insurance proceeds or refunds
• Stocks, dividends, or mutual funds
• Safe deposit box contents (jewelry, documents, keepsakes)
• Money orders or travelers checks
• Vendor payments owed to businesses

Real estate and vehicles are usually not handled through unclaimed property programs. Those follow different legal processes.

Who Typically Has Unclaimed Property in Arkansas?

Almost anyone can have unclaimed property without realizing it. Some common situations:

• You moved and did not update your address with a bank or employer
• You changed jobs and never received your final paycheck
• A utility company owed you a deposit refund after you moved
• You closed an account but a small balance remained
• A loved one passed away and you were never notified about an insurance payout or account

You might find unclaimed assets under:

• Your current legal name
• A previous name (such as a maiden name)
• A nickname that was sometimes used on accounts
• Your business name (if you’re a business owner)
• A deceased relative’s name (if you may be an heir)

There is usually no income test or financial eligibility requirement. If the money is legally yours and you can prove ownership, you are typically allowed to claim it.

Step 1: Understand How Arkansas’s Unclaimed Property System Works

In Arkansas, businesses such as banks, insurance companies, and utilities are usually required to turn over inactive or abandoned accounts to a state unclaimed property office after a certain period of no activity (often 1–5 years, depending on the type of property).

Once turned over:

• The state holds the assets as a custodian
• The owner or heirs can file a claim at any time
• Many states, including Arkansas, hold these funds indefinitely for the rightful owner

Your goal is to:

1. Search the official Arkansas unclaimed property database
2. Submit a claim with required documents through the official Arkansas office
3. Follow up if the office requests more information

HowToGetAssistance.org does not operate this database or process claims; it only explains how the typical process works.

Step 2: Gather Basic Information Before You Search

You can often search with just a name, but having a few details ready can make things smoother:

Personal details to gather:

• Full legal name (first, middle, last)
• Any previous names (maiden name, prior married name, nicknames used on accounts)
• Current address and previous Arkansas addresses (even partial addresses can help)
• Date of birth (sometimes used during verification)

If you are searching for a business:

• Exact business name (and any “doing business as” names)
• Business address(es) in Arkansas
• Employer Identification Number (EIN), if available

If you are searching for a deceased relative’s property:

• Their full legal name
• Approximate dates they lived in Arkansas
• Last known addresses
• Your relationship to the person

You do not usually need to upload documents just to search, but you will need documentation to file a claim once you find property.

Step 3: Search for Unclaimed Property in Arkansas (Official Portal)

Most states, including Arkansas, provide a free online search tool on an official state website. You do not need to pay anyone to search.

Typical steps on the official Arkansas unclaimed property portal:

1. Go to the official Arkansas state website for unclaimed property.

   • To be sure you are on an official site, look for:
     • A web address ending in “.gov”
     • Clear identification of an Arkansas office (such as the Auditor of State)
     • Official contact information and state seals or logos

2. Find the section labeled something like:

   • “Search for Unclaimed Property”
   • “Search for Your Name”
   • “Find Money”

3. Enter your last name and at least part of your first name.

   • Try multiple variations: with and without a middle initial, old names, nicknames.

4. Narrow the results if needed by adding:

   • City or ZIP code
   • Business name instead of your individual name

5. Review the results and look for:

   • Your name (or similar spelling)
   • Last known address that matches somewhere you lived
   • The holder’s name (bank, insurer, employer, etc.)

If you see a record that looks like it might belong to you, the portal typically offers a button such as “Claim,” “File a Claim,” or “Add to Cart” to start the claim process.

Step 4: Search Beyond Arkansas (If You Have Lived Elsewhere)

Many people have unclaimed property in more than one state. If you:

• Lived in other states
• Worked for out-of-state employers
• Had national bank accounts or insurance policies

…you may also want to search:

• The official unclaimed property websites of other states where you lived
• Any national unclaimed property resources operated by recognized associations of state unclaimed property programs

Each state manages its own process, so you would need to file separate claims with each state’s official unclaimed property office.

Step 5: Identify What Documents You’ll Need to Claim Property

Once you find property that appears to be yours, the Arkansas office will typically ask you to provide proof of identity and ownership. Requirements can vary by claim type, but common documents include:

For individuals (your own property)

• Government-issued photo ID
  • Example: driver’s license, state ID, passport
• Proof of current address
  • Utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, government letter
• Proof of prior address, if different from current address
  • Old W‑2, pay stub, tax return, bank statement, or other document showing your name and that older address
• Social Security Number (SSN) (often required on the claim form, but you typically should not email it insecurely)

For claiming on behalf of a deceased person

In addition to your own ID, Arkansas may require:

• Death certificate for the deceased owner
• Proof of your relationship (for example: birth certificate, marriage certificate)
• Legal documents showing authority:
  • Letters testamentary or letters of administration (if you’re the estate’s personal representative)
  • Small-estate affidavit or similar documentation, when applicable
  • Will or court order, if relevant

For business claims

• Proof of your authority to act for the business
  • Corporate resolution, letter on company letterhead, or similar
• Business formation documents
  • Articles of incorporation, partnership agreement, or assumed name registration
• Tax identification (EIN)
• Business address evidence for the time period of the unclaimed property

Quick Reference: Typical Documents by Claim Type

The Arkansas office may request additional documents depending on the situation. It is common for the official website or claim form to list specific requirements for each claim type.

Step 6: Submit Your Claim Through the Official Arkansas Channel

After selecting property to claim on the official Arkansas portal, you’ll usually be guided through submitting a claim form. This may be done:

• Online, by completing digital forms and uploading documents
• By mail, by printing, signing, and mailing forms and copies of your documentation
• Less commonly, in person at a state office (check with the official Arkansas office for availability)

Typical steps:

1. Complete the claim form

   • Provide your full legal name, contact information, and SSN (if requested)
   • Confirm the property you are claiming
   • Indicate your relationship to the original owner (self, heir, representative, etc.)

2. Attach or upload required documentation

   • Clear copies of ID, address proof, and any legal documents
   • Some documents, especially estate documents, may need to be notarized

3. Sign and date

   • For paper claims, sign in ink
   • For online claims, complete any electronic signature process required

4. Submit via the official portal or mail

   • If mailing, send to the official Arkansas unclaimed property mailing address printed on the claim form or website
   • Consider using a trackable mail option if sending original or sensitive documents (check if originals are really required; often copies are accepted)

HowToGetAssistance.org can’t accept, forward, or review claims. You must use the state’s official unclaimed property office.

Step 7: What Happens After You File a Claim in Arkansas?

After you submit your claim, the Arkansas unclaimed property office will usually:

1. Review your documents to confirm your identity and ownership
2. Contact you if they need more information or corrections
3. Approve or deny the claim, and if approved, issue payment

Common forms of payment include:

• Check mailed to your address
• Less commonly, electronic deposit, depending on the state’s processes

Processing times can vary. Many people see decisions within:

• A few weeks for straightforward, small claims
• Several weeks or months for more complex claims (multiple heirs, business properties, or missing paperwork)

The official Arkansas website often provides:

• A way to check claim status online
• A phone number or email for claim questions

Common Reasons Arkansas Unclaimed Property Claims Get Delayed or Denied

Understanding typical pitfalls can help you avoid problems:

1. Incomplete documentation

• Missing photo ID
• No proof of old address that matches the property record
• Missing legal documents for estate cases

2. Mismatched names or spelling

• Name on documents does not match the claim record (for example, different last name after marriage)
• Nicknames vs. legal names without explanation

Tip: Include supporting documentation that explains the name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), if relevant.

3. Incorrect or outdated contact information

• Providing a wrong mailing address, making it hard for the office to send payment or contact you

4. Claim filed by someone without legal authority

• A relative trying to claim a deceased person’s property without being the legal heir or without the proper estate documents

5. Unclear proof of ownership

• In some cases, especially for business or very old accounts, more evidence may be needed to show the property really belongs to you or your company

If your claim is delayed, the Arkansas office may send a letter, email, or portal message explaining what is missing. Reviewing that message carefully and responding with the requested documents can usually get your claim moving again.

How Appeals or Reviews Usually Work

If Arkansas denies your claim, the notice may include:

• The reason for denial
• Whether you can submit additional documentation
• Contact information to ask questions or request review

In many cases, if the denial is based on missing or insufficient proof, you may be able to:

1. Gather stronger documentation, such as more detailed records or legal papers
2. Resubmit a new claim or respond as directed by the official office
3. Request clarification from the official Arkansas unclaimed property office about what they need

There is usually not a formal “court-style” appeal for smaller claims, but more complex or high-value cases might involve additional legal steps. For those, some people choose to consult a legal professional who is familiar with Arkansas probate or property law.

How to Avoid Scams When Searching for Unclaimed Money in Arkansas

Because unclaimed money is involved, there are often scam attempts or misleading paid services. Some key protections:

Verify You’re on an Official Arkansas Site

Look for:

• A web address ending in “.gov”
• Clear labeling of an Arkansas state office (such as a state Auditor or Treasurer office)
• Official state contact information and mailing address

If you are unsure, you can:

• Call a main Arkansas state government information line and ask to be transferred to the unclaimed property office
• Contact your local county office and ask how to reach the state unclaimed property program

Be Careful About Fees

• The official Arkansas unclaimed property search is typically free
• Some private “finder” companies offer to locate and claim money for you in exchange for a fee or percentage
• Arkansas law may regulate these “finder” contracts, including how much they can charge and what disclosures are required

You do not have to pay a third party to search or file a claim. Many people handle this process on their own through the official state portal.

Protect Your Personal Information

• You may need to provide your SSN to the official Arkansas office for verification—but be cautious about sharing it online with unknown websites
• Avoid responding to unsolicited emails or calls that:
  • Ask you to pay upfront fees
  • Demand personal details but cannot clearly prove they’re from an official Arkansas office

When in doubt, hang up, close the email, and contact the official Arkansas unclaimed property office directly using contact information you find through a known state government source.

If You Don’t Find Any Unclaimed Property in Arkansas

Sometimes, a search may show no results for your name in Arkansas. That does not always mean there is nothing owed to you forever. Consider:

1. Check for spelling variations and old names
   • Try middle initial, different spelling, hyphenated names
2. Search old addresses and related names
   • Prior roommates, businesses, or relatives might have joint accounts
3. Search other states
   • If you lived, worked, or held accounts outside Arkansas, check those states’ official unclaimed property sites

Even if you find nothing today, new property is turned over to the state every year. Many people choose to recheck every year or two.

Other Resources if You Need Help

If you want help understanding the Arkansas unclaimed property process but are not sure where to start, you might consider:

• Calling the official Arkansas unclaimed property office using the phone number listed on the state’s official website
• Reaching out to a local legal aid organization if your claim involves a complicated estate situation
• Contacting 211 (where available) for general information and referrals; 211 is an information and referral service in many communities

These resources do not file claims for you, but they may help explain forms, legal terms, or next steps.

By using the official Arkansas unclaimed property portal, carefully following the state’s instructions, gathering the right documents, and watching out for scams, many Arkansas residents and former residents are able to recover money and assets that have been sitting unclaimed for years.