How to File an Unclaimed Property Claim in Delaware (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’ve ever lived, worked, or done business in Delaware, you might have money or property waiting for you that you don’t know about. This is often called unclaimed property or unclaimed assets.

This guide explains, in plain language, how to file an unclaimed assets claim in Delaware, what to expect, and how to stay on the official, safe path. HowToGetAssistance.org is an independent information site, not a government office or filing portal, but this overview can help you get ready to use Delaware’s official resources.

What Is Unclaimed Property in Delaware?

Unclaimed property is money or certain kinds of property that a business, financial institution, or organization owes you but has lost contact with you for a period of time. After that time passes, Delaware law usually requires those businesses to turn the property over to the state.

In Delaware, common types of unclaimed assets include:

• Bank accounts (checking or savings) that have been inactive
• Uncashed checks, including payroll checks and refunds
• Utility deposits or refunds (electric, gas, water, cable, internet)
• Insurance proceeds or policy benefits
• Stocks, dividends, and mutual funds
• Certificates of deposit (CDs)
• Safe deposit box contents (after a process and holding period)
• Credit balances from retailers or service providers

Delaware’s unclaimed property is handled by the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property, which is part of the Delaware Department of Finance. This office keeps and safeguards the property until the rightful owner or heirs file a claim through official channels.

Who Can File an Unclaimed Property Claim in Delaware?

You may be able to file a claim in Delaware if:

• You are the rightful owner listed on the account or record
• You are a current or former Delaware resident (though in some cases, Delaware holds property even for people living elsewhere, depending on the business)
• You are a heir or personal representative of a deceased person who had unclaimed property
• You are an officer or authorized representative of a business with unclaimed property
• You legally changed your name or address, but the old information appears on the unclaimed property record

In general, you must be able to:

1. Prove your identity, and
2. Show your connection to the unclaimed property (such as matching name and address or legal authority to claim on someone else’s behalf).

How to Search for Unclaimed Property in Delaware

Before you can file a claim, you need to find out whether Delaware is holding anything in your name.

Step 1: Go to Delaware’s Official Unclaimed Property Search

Delaware maintains an official unclaimed property search tool through the state government. You can typically find it by:

• Visiting the Delaware Department of Finance website and looking for the Unclaimed Property section, or
• Searching online for “Delaware unclaimed property official search” and checking that the site clearly shows it is a Delaware government website (for example, with a .gov address and clear state branding).

⚠️ Important: Use only the official state site for searching and filing claims. Be cautious of private sites that charge fees or ask for unnecessary personal information.

Step 2: Search Using Your Information

On the official search page, you are usually asked to enter:

• Last name (and optionally first name)
• Business name (if you’re searching for a company)
• Sometimes a city or ZIP code to narrow results

Common tips:

• Run multiple searches with:
  • Current and former last names (for example, maiden and married names)
  • Old addresses or cities where you lived or worked
  • Business names, including old or alternate business names

If the search shows potential matches, you can click on each record to review the owner name, last known address, and holder (such as a bank or company).

Overview of the Delaware Unclaimed Property Claim Process

Once you find a property that appears to belong to you, the basic process usually looks like this:

1. Select the property in the online system and start a claim.
2. Enter your contact information and confirm details.
3. Submit the initial claim online (claim number is created).
4. Upload or mail required documents to prove your identity and ownership.
5. Wait for review by the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property.
6. Receive a decision and, if approved, your payment or property.

The rest of this guide walks through these steps in more detail.

Documents You May Need for a Delaware Unclaimed Property Claim

The exact documents depend on your situation and the type of claim (individual, business, estate, etc.). Below is a general guide.

For Individual Claimants (Claiming for Yourself)

Be prepared to provide:

• Government-issued photo ID, such as:
  • Driver’s license
  • State ID card
  • Passport
• Proof of Social Security Number (SSN), such as:
  • Social Security card
  • Tax document (with SSN visible)
• Proof of current address, which may include:
  • Utility bill
  • Lease agreement
  • Bank statement
• Proof of the address or name shown on the unclaimed property record, if it differs from your current information, such as:
  • Old utility bill or bank statement
  • Pay stub
  • Tax record
  • Marriage certificate or court order (for name changes)

For Claims on Behalf of a Deceased Person (Heir or Estate)

You may be asked for:

• All documents listed above for yourself (ID, SSN, proof of address)
• Death certificate of the original owner
• Legal documents showing your authority, such as:
  • Will naming you as executor
  • Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration from the court
  • Small estate or affidavit documents where applicable
• Proof of relationship, if required (such as birth certificate or marriage certificate)

For Business Claims

If you are filing on behalf of a business, you may need:

• Your photo ID
• Proof of authority, such as:
  • Corporate resolution
  • Letter on company letterhead authorizing you to act
  • Official business records listing you as an officer
• Business tax ID (EIN) information
• Documents tying the business to the address or name shown in the property record, such as:
  • Business license
  • Old invoices
  • Tax filings

Quick Reference: Common Documents by Situation

*Exact requirements can vary. The Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property will specify what is needed for your particular claim.

How to File an Unclaimed Property Claim in Delaware (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Identify Your Property in the Official Search

From the official Delaware unclaimed property search:

1. Enter your name or business name.
2. Review search results for matches to your:
   • Name
   • Former names
   • Current or prior addresses
3. Select the records that appear to belong to you.

You will usually be able to add multiple properties to a single claim if they all belong to the same owner.

Step 2: Start the Claim Online

Once you select the property:

1. Click on the option to “Claim” or “File a Claim” next to the property.
2. The system will typically ask you to:
   • Confirm that you are the rightful owner or authorized representative.
   • Provide basic contact information, such as:
     • Full name
     • Mailing address
     • Phone number
     • Email address

After you submit this information, the system usually assigns a claim number. Make note of this in case you need to check your status later.

Step 3: Review the List of Required Documents

Once your claim is started, the online system commonly shows a document checklist based on your claim type. This might include:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of address
• Legal documents for estates, businesses, or name changes

You may have the option to:

• Upload documents online, or
• Mail copies to the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property, referencing your claim number.

Follow the instructions given with your specific claim, since requirements can vary.

Step 4: Submit Your Documents

If uploading online:

• Scan or photograph documents clearly.
• Make sure names, dates, and addresses are readable.
• Only upload documents requested by the state—avoid sending unnecessary extra personal details.

If mailing:

• Use clear copies (you usually should not mail originals unless the office specifically instructs you to).
• Include a cover page or note with your claim number, name, and contact information.
• Use the official mailing address listed by the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property for claims documentation.

Step 5: Wait for the Claim Review

After your claim and documents are submitted:

• A claims examiner with the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property reviews your information.
• Processing time can vary depending on:
  • Volume of claims
  • Complexity of your case (for example, estates often take longer)
  • Whether any documents are missing or unclear

You can typically check your status by:

• Returning to the official Delaware unclaimed property website and using your claim number, or
• Contacting the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property via the phone number or email listed on the official site.

Step 6: Receive Your Payment or Property

If your claim is approved, Delaware typically issues:

• A check mailed to your address on file, or
• Other forms of distribution depending on the property type (for example, sometimes liquidated investment proceeds).

For physical property such as safe deposit box contents, there may be additional instructions. Sometimes items are sold and the proceeds are held instead of the physical items themselves; the official office can explain what applies in your case.

If your claim is denied or partially approved, the decision notice should explain the reason and may outline what you can do if you believe the decision is incorrect.

Common Reasons Delaware Unclaimed Property Claims Are Delayed or Denied

Understanding frequent problems can help you avoid them:

• Incomplete documentation
  • Missing ID, missing proof of address, or incomplete estate documents.
• Unreadable or unclear copies
  • Blurry photos, cut-off pages, or documents where names/addresses are not clearly visible.
• Name mismatch
  • Claim filed under a different spelling or variation of the name that isn’t supported by documentation (for example, no proof of maiden/married name link).
• Wrong claimant
  • Someone filing who is not the actual owner, not a legal heir, or who does not have documented authority to act for a business or estate.
• Address mismatch without proof
  • The unclaimed property is tied to a prior address that you haven’t documented as yours.
• Out-of-date contact information
  • The office cannot reach you with questions or requests for more information.

If your claim is delayed, it often helps to:

• Re-check the document list in your online portal or letter.
• Make sure you provided all requested information.
• Contact the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property if you are unsure what is missing.

What If Your Claim Is Denied?

If Delaware denies your claim, the decision usually comes with a reason. Common next steps include:

• Review the denial reason carefully.
  • It may be a simple issue, like missing proof of address or unclear identification.
• Gather additional documentation if possible.
  • For example, older bills, tax records, or legal documents that show your connection to the name or address.
• Contact the office to ask what kind of documentation would resolve the problem, if that information was not already provided.
• Refile or request review, if allowed.
  • Some situations may allow you to reopen or resubmit a claim with stronger documentation.

For complex issues, such as disputes over estate authority or ownership, people sometimes choose to seek legal advice from a private attorney. The Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property does not act as your attorney and cannot give you legal advice.

How Long Do You Have to Claim Unclaimed Property in Delaware?

Many states, including Delaware, treat unclaimed property as held indefinitely for the owner. That typically means:

• The state does not “take” ownership of your unclaimed property permanently.
• There is usually no strict deadline by which you must file to claim your property.

However:

• Certain property types (like safe deposit box contents) may be sold after a period of time, and the cash value is then held for the owner.
• Laws and policies can change, so it is usually best to file your claim as soon as you become aware of it.

For up-to-date information, you can review the policies posted on Delaware’s official unclaimed property website or contact the office directly.

How to Verify You’re Using Delaware’s Official Unclaimed Property Resources

Because unclaimed property sometimes attracts scammers or fee-based “finders,” it’s important to verify that you’re dealing with the official state office.

Here are some tips:

• Look for a .gov website address and clear Delaware state branding.
• The site should clearly refer to the Delaware Department of Finance and the Office of Unclaimed Property.
• Be cautious if:
  • A site asks for payment or a fee to search or file a claim (Delaware’s official service is typically free to owners).
  • You receive unsolicited emails, texts, or social media messages claiming you have money waiting and asking you to click unusual links.
  • Someone pressures you to sign a contract giving them a large percentage of your claim.

You usually do not need to pay anyone to:

• Search for unclaimed property
• File a basic claim
• Check claim status

If you choose to use a private “finder” service, you should carefully read any contract and understand the fee structure. You still have the option to work directly with the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property without going through a third party.

Alternatives and Additional Help If You Don’t Find Property in Delaware

If your search in Delaware turns up nothing, there are a few additional options you can explore:

1. Search other states where you lived or worked.

   • Many people have unclaimed property in multiple states, especially if they’ve moved frequently.

2. Check federal sources for certain types of funds.

   • For example, federal tax refunds and some federal benefits are handled by national agencies rather than state unclaimed property offices.

3. Ask former employers or financial institutions directly.

   • If you suspect a missing paycheck, retirement account, or refund, your former employer or bank sometimes can tell you whether they transferred the funds to a state.

4. Call 211 or a local information/referral service if you need help navigating government websites and phone numbers.

   • While they typically won’t manage your claim, they may help direct you to the correct official office or website.

Key Takeaways for Filing a Delaware Unclaimed Property Claim

• Delaware’s Office of Unclaimed Property holds money and certain property turned over by businesses when the owner cannot be located.
• You can search for free using the official state unclaimed property website—verify you are on a Delaware government (.gov) site.
• To file a claim, you will:
  • Select your property in the official search,
  • Provide contact information,
  • And submit supporting documents proving your identity and your connection to the property.
• Be prepared with:
  • Photo ID,
  • Proof of SSN,
  • Proof of current and past addresses, and
  • Any legal documents (for heirs, estates, businesses, or name changes).
• Watch for common pitfalls like missing documents, unclear copies, and name/address mismatches.
• The process is handled only through Delaware’s official unclaimed property channels—HowToGetAssistance.org cannot accept claims, check status, or issue payments.

Once you understand these steps, your next move is to go to the official Delaware unclaimed property search or contact the Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property directly to begin or continue your claim.