Unclaimed Bank Accounts in Florida: Why They Happen and How to Claim Your Money

Finding out you might have money sitting in an unclaimed bank account in Florida can be surprising—and a little confusing. The good news is that there is a clear, official process for tracking this money down and requesting it.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains how unclaimed bank accounts typically end up with the State of Florida, how to search for them, what documents you may need, and how to file a claim through official channels. HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government agency or claim portal, but this overview can help you understand what to expect before you go to the official sites or offices.

What Is an Unclaimed Bank Account in Florida?

In Florida, unclaimed bank accounts are usually bank or credit union accounts that have had no activity for a certain period of time (often several years) and no contact with the account owner.

Typical examples include:

• Checking or savings accounts you forgot about
• Certificates of deposit (CDs) that matured and were not renewed or cashed out
• Money market accounts
• Safe deposit box contents (after a longer period of inactivity and required notices)

When an account is considered “abandoned” under Florida law, the bank is generally required to turn the funds over to the State of Florida’s unclaimed property program (often overseen by the Florida Department of Financial Services or a similar state division). The state then holds the funds for the rightful owner or heirs to claim.

How Bank Accounts Become “Unclaimed” in Florida

Unclaimed accounts usually don’t happen overnight. There is a timeline and several triggers that typically lead to an account being reported as unclaimed property.

Common reasons accounts go unclaimed

Unclaimed bank accounts in Florida often result from everyday life events, such as:

• Moving and not updating your address with the bank
• Changing your name (for example, after marriage or divorce) and losing track of older accounts
• Opening a small account and later forgetting it exists
• A loved one passing away, and heirs not knowing about the account
• Long-term illness, military deployment, or other life events that interrupt normal financial routines

Typical inactivity period

Every state sets its own rules for when an account is considered unclaimed. In Florida, banks and financial institutions generally must:

1. Monitor accounts for inactivity (no deposits, withdrawals, or clear owner contact for a specific period—often around 5 years for many account types, though it can vary).
2. Attempt to contact the owner using the last known address on file (often by mail, sometimes electronically).
3. If they cannot reach the owner and the inactivity period passes, report and transfer the funds to the State of Florida as unclaimed property.

Once the state receives the money, the account is no longer with the bank. Instead, the state holds the funds indefinitely so owners or heirs can file a claim.

Who Can Claim an Unclaimed Bank Account in Florida?

In general, any person or entity that can prove a rightful ownership interest in the funds can submit a claim.

Typical eligible claimants include:

• The original account holder
• Heirs or beneficiaries of a deceased account holder
• Executors or personal representatives of an estate
• Business owners or authorized officers if the account was in a business name
• Trustees or other legal representatives, where appropriate

If the original account holder has passed away, Florida usually requires legal proof of your relationship and authority to act on behalf of the estate or heirs.

How to Search for Unclaimed Bank Accounts in Florida

You do not need to hire a third party to see if you have unclaimed money. Most people can do this themselves by using official state tools.

Step 1: Go to Florida’s official unclaimed property search

Florida typically has an official unclaimed property website managed by the state treasury or financial services department. To find it:

• Search online for: “Florida unclaimed property official site” or “Florida Treasury unclaimed property search.”
• Verify that the site clearly identifies itself as a State of Florida website (for example, it may use a .gov domain and display state seals or contact information for a state department).

If you are unsure, you can:

• Call a Florida state financial services or treasury office directly using a phone number listed on the official state website.
• Ask if you are on the correct website for Florida’s unclaimed property search.

Step 2: Use the online search tool

Most official Florida unclaimed property sites provide a free searchable database. You typically can search by:

• Your first and last name
• Previous names (maiden name, prior married names, or name variations)
• Business name (for companies)
• City or ZIP code (sometimes optional filters)

Search tips:

• Try multiple versions of your name (with and without middle initial).
• Check old addresses and cities where you previously lived or banked.
• If you are searching for a deceased relative, try their name and last known city.

If a match appears, the listing often shows:

• The name on the property
• The last known address
• The holder type (such as a bank, credit union, or financial institution)
• A property ID or claim number

This is usually enough to start a claim through Florida’s official process.

Documents You May Need to Claim an Unclaimed Account in Florida

Exact requirements can vary, but most Florida claims ask for proof of identity, and, when needed, proof of ownership or relationship. Having documents ready can help avoid delays.

Common documents for individual claimants

You may be asked to provide:

• Valid photo ID
  • Florida driver’s license
  • State-issued ID card
  • U.S. passport
• Proof of your Social Security Number
  • Social Security card
  • SSA-1099 or W-2 showing your name and SSN
• Proof of address or past address (depending on the property listing)
  • Utility bill
  • Bank statement
  • Lease agreement or mortgage statement
  • Old tax returns listing the address

Extra documents if the owner is deceased

If you’re claiming on behalf of a deceased person, Florida may also require:

• Death certificate
• Letters of administration or letters testamentary (appointing a personal representative)
• Will or other estate documents, where applicable
• Probate court orders, if the estate has gone through probate
• Relationship documents (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate) if claiming as an heir

Documents for business claims

For accounts in a business name, you may need:

• Business formation documents (articles of incorporation, partnership agreement, etc.)
• Proof of authority (for example, a corporate resolution or official title like “owner” or “manager”)
• Tax ID number (EIN) documentation
• Current business license or registration records

Summary: Typical Documents by Claim Type

*Exact requirements may vary. The official Florida unclaimed property office or website will list the current documentation rules.

How to File a Claim for Unclaimed Bank Accounts in Florida

The only way to actually claim money from an unclaimed bank account is through Florida’s official unclaimed property process. HowToGetAssistance.org does not process or submit claims.

While each case is unique, many Florida claims follow steps like these:

1. Start the claim online

After you search the official Florida unclaimed property database and find a record that appears to be yours:

1. Select the property and click on the option to “start a claim” or similar.
2. Indicate whether you are:
   • The owner
   • A heir or personal representative
   • A business representative
3. Provide basic information such as:
   • Full legal name
   • Current mailing address
   • Phone number and email
   • Social Security Number or Tax ID (if requested on the official form)

Some claims can be completed fully online if you are able to upload documents. Others may require mailing signed forms and copies of your ID.

2. Print and sign any required claim forms

Often, the Florida system will generate a claim form based on your submission. You may be asked to:

• Print the form
• Sign and date it
• Attach copies (not originals) of required documents

In some cases, highly sensitive claims may require documents to be notarized. The official instructions will state this clearly.

3. Mail or upload your documents

Florida’s official process typically allows one or more of the following:

• Online document upload through a secure state portal
• Mailing your signed claim form and copies of documents to a designated state address
• In limited cases, in-person submission at a state office (if available)

Always follow the exact mailing address or upload instructions provided on the official Florida unclaimed property website or claim form.

What Happens After You Submit Your Claim

Processing times can vary. For many straightforward claims where documents are clear and match state records, the process is often relatively smooth.

Typically, you can expect:

1. Receipt/acknowledgment

   • The official site or office may send a confirmation number or letter showing they received your claim.

2. Review of your documents

   • Staff verify your identity, compare addresses and Social Security or Tax ID numbers, and confirm you are the correct owner or heir.

3. Requests for additional information (if needed)

   • If something is missing, mismatched, or unclear, Florida may ask you to provide:
     • Clearer copies of ID
     • Additional proof of address
     • Estate documents or court records

4. Approval or denial

   • If approved, the state typically issues a check or payment made out to you (or to the estate or business, depending on the claim type).
   • If denied, you should receive a notice explaining the reason and any next steps you can take.

Common Reasons Florida Unclaimed Property Claims Get Delayed or Denied

Many problems can be avoided by carefully following instructions on the official Florida forms. Common issues include:

• Name mismatches

  • Example: Your ID lists “John A. Smith,” but the unclaimed account is under “Johnny Smith.” In such cases, you may need to show name change documents or additional proof tying both names to you.

• Address gaps

  • The last known address on record doesn’t match your documents. Providing old utility bills, tax returns, or bank records with that address can help.

• Incomplete or missing documents

  • Leaving out a required death certificate, not including letters of administration, or forgetting proof of address can slow the process significantly.

• Unreadable copies

  • Dark, blurry, or cut-off copies of ID or documents may not be accepted. Clear, legible copies are important.

• Incorrect claim type

  • Filing as an “owner” when you are actually an “heir,” or filing as an individual when the property is under a business name, can create confusion. Select the correct role based on how the property is listed.

If your claim is denied, you can usually contact the Florida unclaimed property office directly (using the phone number or email provided on the official site) to ask what went wrong and whether you can resubmit with corrected documentation.

Can You Appeal a Denied Claim?

Florida typically allows some form of review or reconsideration if you disagree with a claim decision. The process can vary depending on the reason for denial.

You may be able to:

• Submit additional documents that were missing or unclear
• Update your claim information to correct a mistake
• Request that the office re-review the claim after you provide new evidence

For more complex disputes, there may be specific procedures for administrative review or appeal. Any such process should be described on the official Florida unclaimed property website or in the denial letter. If the situation involves estates or complicated legal issues, some people choose to talk with an attorney familiar with Florida probate or property law.

How Long Do You Have to Claim Unclaimed Bank Accounts in Florida?

Many states, including Florida, allow the state to hold unclaimed property indefinitely for the rightful owner. This means there often is no strict deadline that makes you lose the right to claim the money.

However:

• Banks typically transfer funds to the state after the legal dormancy period, so you might not be able to go back to the bank directly—claims usually must go through the state unclaimed property office.
• Rules can change over time, and documentation may become harder to find as years pass. It is usually best to file a claim as soon as you discover unclaimed property in your name.

Avoiding Scams While Searching for Unclaimed Money in Florida

Because unclaimed money sounds appealing, scammers sometimes try to pose as government agencies or “claim services.” You can protect yourself by verifying you are using official channels.

How to confirm you are on an official site or with a real office

• Look for a “.gov” domain for state websites.
• Check that the site clearly identifies a Florida state department (such as a department of financial services or treasury).
• Cross-check phone numbers by visiting the broader official State of Florida website and finding the unclaimed property contact information there.
• Be cautious about websites or callers that:
  • Ask you to pay upfront fees just to search if you have unclaimed property
  • Request your full Social Security Number or banking details before clearly proving they are an official state agency

About “finder” or “locator” services

Some private individuals or companies offer to help find and claim unclaimed money in exchange for a fee or a percentage. Florida may allow these arrangements with certain restrictions, but:

• You can usually search and file a claim for free directly through the official state portal.
• Before signing anything, it’s wise to:
  • Confirm the property exists by searching yourself
  • Carefully read any contract
  • Understand exactly what fee is being charged and what service is being provided

You are never required to use a paid service to claim your own unclaimed property.

Tips to Prevent Future Accounts from Becoming Unclaimed

Once you recover an unclaimed bank account, it’s a good time to update your habits to avoid losing track of money again.

Consider:

• Keeping a simple list of all your bank and credit union accounts, including online-only banks
• Updating your mailing and email address whenever you move or switch providers
• Signing up for online banking so you can see account activity even if you move states
• Checking your unclaimed property status every few years, especially after major life changes (such as moving, job changes, or the passing of a loved one)
• Letting trusted family members or your estate representative know where your accounts and records are stored

If You Don’t Find Unclaimed Property but Need Financial Help

Not everyone will find an unclaimed bank account, and funds from unclaimed property are not a guaranteed form of assistance. If you are facing financial hardship, you may want to explore:

• Florida social service agencies for help with food, housing, medical care, or utilities
• The statewide 2-1-1 information line, which can connect you to local resources in many Florida communities
• County human services offices for emergency assistance or income-based programs

Each program has its own eligibility rules, application steps, and documentation requirements, so it’s best to contact the relevant official office or hotline to learn what applies to your situation.

Unclaimed bank accounts in Florida are more common than many people realize, and the state’s unclaimed property system exists to help get that money back to its rightful owners. By using Florida’s official unclaimed property search, gathering the right documents, and following the state’s claim instructions carefully, many people are able to successfully reclaim forgotten funds without paying any third-party fees.