How To File an Unclaimed Assets Claim in Maryland: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever forgotten about an old bank account, utility deposit, paycheck, or insurance refund, there’s a chance that money may have been turned over to the Maryland unclaimed property program. This guide walks you through how to find and claim unclaimed assets in Maryland, what documents you may need, and how to avoid common mistakes and scams.

HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government agency and cannot take claims or check your claim status for you. This article is meant to help you understand the process so you can work directly through Maryland’s official channels.

What Is Unclaimed Property in Maryland?

In Maryland, unclaimed property (sometimes called unclaimed assets) usually refers to money or financial assets that a business, bank, or other organization has been unable to return to the rightful owner for a long period of time.

Common examples include:

• Dormant bank accounts or credit union accounts
• Uncashed checks (payroll, vendor checks, refunds)
• Utility deposits and refunds (electric, gas, water, cable, internet)
• Insurance proceeds or refunds
• Safe deposit box contents
• Stocks, bonds, or mutual fund accounts
• Money orders or traveler’s checks
• Tenant security deposits from landlords

When the holder (such as a bank or company) can’t reach you, and the account is inactive for a set number of years, Maryland law generally requires them to turn the property over to the state unclaimed property program. The state then holds it until the rightful owner or heirs file a claim.

Who Can File an Unclaimed Property Claim in Maryland?

You may be able to file a claim if you are:

• The original owner of the property (listed under your name or a former name)
• A joint owner
• A legal heir or beneficiary of a deceased owner
• An authorized representative, such as:
  • Court-appointed personal representative (executor) of an estate
  • Guardian or conservator
  • Officer or authorized agent for a business

Key eligibility clues:

• The name on the unclaimed property matches your name (including former names, such as a maiden name).
• The last known address on the listing is in Maryland, or the property was reported to Maryland for another reason.
• You can reasonably show a connection to the person or business named (for example, you are the heir or business owner).

If the owner has passed away, heirs usually must provide proof of relationship and sometimes probate or estate documents.

Step 1: Search for Unclaimed Property in Maryland

To claim unclaimed property, you first need to determine whether there’s anything in your name.

In Maryland, searching typically happens:

• Online, through the official Maryland unclaimed property search portal run by the state comptroller or treasury department
• By phone, by calling the state’s unclaimed property office and asking staff to help search
• By mail, if you request forms or printed lists (less common now)

When you search, it usually helps to:

• Try all versions of your name:
  • Full legal name
  • Former last names
  • Common nicknames
  • Middle initial or no middle initial
• Search for:
  • Your current address
  • Previous addresses in Maryland (and in other states where you lived or worked)
• Search for relatives’ names if you believe a parent, spouse, or deceased loved one may have unclaimed assets.

If you find multiple listings that appear to be you, you can usually claim each one in a single claim process, depending on how the state’s system is set up.

Step 2: Identify What Type of Claim You Need to File

The type of claim you file in Maryland can affect what forms and documents you need. The most common claim types are:

*Exact requirements can vary. The Maryland unclaimed property office explains current requirements on their official materials and forms.

When you start a claim online or request paper forms, you will generally be asked to choose the appropriate claim type.

Step 3: Gather the Documents You May Need

Maryland’s unclaimed property office typically requires proof that you are the rightful owner or authorized claimant. Having documents ready can speed things up.

Basic documents often requested

For individual owner claims:

• Government-issued photo ID (for example, driver’s license, state ID, passport)
• Proof of Social Security number or taxpayer ID, such as:
  • Social Security card
  • Tax form (with SSN visible)
• Proof of current or previous address that matches the unclaimed property record, such as:
  • Utility bill
  • Bank statement
  • Lease agreement
  • Old pay stub or W-2
• Any documents from the original holder, if available:
  • Old bank statements
  • Cancelled checks
  • Policy statements

For business claims:

• Government-issued photo ID for the person signing
• Proof of affiliation with the business, like:
  • Articles of incorporation
  • Business license
  • Partnership agreement
  • Corporate resolution naming you as an authorized signer
• Tax ID number (EIN)
• Documents connecting the business name and address to the unclaimed property

For heir or estate claims:

• Death certificate of the property owner
• Proof of your relationship to the deceased (for example: birth certificate, marriage certificate, family tree documentation)
• Estate documents, such as:
  • Letters of administration or letters testamentary
  • Will, if applicable
  • Court orders appointing you as personal representative
• In some cases, affidavits of heirship if there was no formal probate

The Maryland unclaimed property office may list specific document requirements on the claim form or on their official website. Always follow the directions provided by the state office closely.

Step 4: File Your Unclaimed Property Claim (Maryland)

In Maryland, you can usually file a claim:

• Online, through the state’s official unclaimed property claim portal
• By mail, by printing, signing, and mailing a claim form
• In person, by visiting the Maryland unclaimed property office (if they accept walk-ins or appointments)

Filing a claim online

For many people, online filing is the fastest and simplest:

1. Go to the official Maryland unclaimed property website (often part of the state comptroller or treasury website).
2. Use the search tool to look up your name.
3. Select the property you believe is yours and choose “File a Claim” or similar.
4. Answer the questions about:
   • How you are connected to the property
   • Your current address and contact information
   • Whether you are the owner, heir, or representative
5. Upload scanned or photographed copies of required documents, if the system allows.
6. Review everything carefully and submit the claim electronically.

The system may give you a claim number or confirmation. Keep this for your records so you can check the status later.

Filing a claim by mail

If you prefer paper forms or can’t upload documents online:

1. Use the official Maryland unclaimed property search to identify your property.
2. Select the property and choose the mail-in claim form option, or contact the office to request the proper form.
3. Fill out the form neatly and completely, making sure:
   • Your name matches your ID
   • You include all requested information
4. Attach photocopies (not originals, unless instructions say otherwise) of your supporting documents.
5. Sign and date the form. Some claims may require notarization, especially:
   • High-dollar claims
   • Heir or estate claims
   • Claims involving legal authority (executor, guardian, etc.)
6. Mail the claim form and documents to the official Maryland unclaimed property mailing address listed on the form.

If you mail your claim, consider using a method that provides tracking and keep copies of everything you send.

Step 5: What Happens After You File Your Claim?

Once the Maryland unclaimed property office receives your claim:

1. Initial review

   • Staff check that your form is complete and that required documents are included.
   • If something is missing or unclear, they may contact you by mail, phone, or email for clarification.

2. Verification process

   • The office compares your documents to the information reported by the original holder.
   • For heir or estate claims, they may need extra time to verify the line of inheritance or legal authority.

3. Decision and payment

   • If the claim is approved, the state typically issues a payment:
     • Often by check mailed to your address
     • In some cases, direct deposit or other methods if offered
   • If the claim is denied or partially approved, you should receive a notice explaining the reason, or instructions for next steps.

How long does it take?

Processing times in Maryland can vary depending on:

• The complexity of your claim (simple individual vs. large heir claim)
• The volume of claims being processed
• Whether your documents were complete and clear

Some straightforward claims may be resolved in a few weeks, while more complicated estate or business claims may take several months. Official state materials or staff can give you a more current estimate.

Common Reasons Maryland Unclaimed Property Claims Get Delayed or Denied

Maryland’s unclaimed property office generally needs to be confident that they are paying the right person. Claims can be slowed down or denied if:

• Name mismatches
  • You use a nickname or a married name, but do not provide proof linking it to the name on the property.
• Insufficient address proof
  • You can’t show you lived at, or were associated with, the address used when the property was reported.
• Missing or incomplete documents
  • No proof of Social Security number or taxpayer ID (if requested).
  • No proof of business authority for business claims.
• Heir claims without estate documentation
  • No death certificate.
  • No proof of relationship to the deceased.
  • No court appointment when one is needed.
• Unsigned or undated claim forms
  • Claim not properly signed or not notarized where required.

If you receive a request for more information from the Maryland unclaimed property office, respond as clearly and promptly as possible, following their instructions.

How to Check the Status of Your Maryland Unclaimed Property Claim

You typically cannot check your status through HowToGetAssistance.org. To follow up, you can use:

• The online claim status tool, if provided on Maryland’s official site
• The phone number or email of the Maryland unclaimed property office (often listed on the claim form or website)

Have these ready when you contact them:

• Claim number
• Your name and address
• The approximate date you filed the claim

If you moved after filing, make sure the office has your updated mailing address, especially if they mail a paper check.

Special Situations: Maryland Heir and Estate Claims

Claims for a deceased owner are often more complex. In Maryland, the general steps for heir or estate claims may include:

1. Identify all heirs

   • Maryland may follow state intestacy rules if there was no will.
   • Multiple heirs may need to sign documents or agree on a representative.

2. Provide death certificate and relationship proof

   • A certified death certificate usually is required.
   • Relationship may be shown by birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other official records.

3. Show legal authority, when applicable

   • If an estate is open, the personal representative (executor) usually files the claim.
   • If there is no formal estate, Maryland may allow affidavits of heirship or other documentation.

4. Address multiple heirs and distribution

   • The unclaimed property office generally pays the legal claimant (estate or personal representative).
   • How the money is then divided is usually governed by Maryland estate law, the will, or court orders.

When the situation is complicated—such as many heirs, disputes, or unclear family ties—people sometimes consult with a Maryland attorney experienced in probate or estate administration for guidance.

What If Your Claim Is Denied?

If Maryland’s unclaimed property office denies your claim, the notice should explain why. Common next steps might include:

• Submitting additional documents
  • For example, extra proof of address, name change, or relationship.
• Correcting errors
  • Fixing a misspelled name, wrong Social Security number, or incomplete form.
• Filing a new claim
  • In some cases, if major information was missing, you may need to start over.

If you disagree with the decision, Maryland may have a review or appeal process described in the denial letter or on official materials. This might involve:

• Writing a formal letter explaining why you believe the decision was incorrect
• Providing more detailed legal or documentary evidence

For complex disputes, you may wish to consult with a legal professional familiar with Maryland unclaimed property and administrative procedures.

Avoiding Scams and Making Sure You’re Using Official Maryland Channels

Unclaimed property is an area where scams can appear, especially through unsolicited calls, emails, or letters offering to “find money for you” for a large fee.

Here are some ways to protect yourself:

How to recognize official channels

• The search and claim process for Maryland unclaimed property is typically:
  • Free through the official Maryland state website
  • Managed by the state agency responsible for revenue, treasury, or unclaimed property
• Official sites usually:
  • Use “.gov” domains
  • Clearly identify the Maryland state government and the responsible department (e.g., comptroller, treasurer)
  • Provide official phone numbers and mailing addresses connected to state offices

Red flags to watch for

• Requests for upfront fees just to search for property you might have
• Demands for sensitive information (like full Social Security number or bank account numbers) over text or email, especially if you did not start the contact
• Emails from non-government domains that look unofficial or suspicious
• High-pressure tactics: “You must pay immediately or lose your claim”

Maryland may allow third-party “finders” or locators to assist with claims, but they must follow state rules. If someone offers to help for a fee:

• Confirm that you can always file a claim yourself for free directly through the state.
• Ask for written terms and check whether the agreement is reasonable and allowed by Maryland law.
• Never sign documents you don’t fully understand.

If you’re unsure whether a site or caller is legitimate, you can:

• Independently look up the Maryland unclaimed property office phone number on a trusted source (such as the general Maryland state government directory), then call that number directly.
• Avoid calling numbers or visiting web addresses only listed in a suspicious message.

If You Don’t Find Property in Maryland

If your search in Maryland shows no results, you still have options:

• Search in other states where you:
  • Lived previously
  • Worked
  • Attended school
• Search for business names if you owned or were involved with a company.
• Check for federal unclaimed funds, such as:
  • Certain U.S. savings bonds or tax refunds (through federal agencies and the IRS)

Unclaimed property records can change over time as more businesses report inactive accounts, so it can be useful to re-check periodically.

Key Takeaways for Filing a Maryland Unclaimed Property Claim

• You file unclaimed property (unclaimed assets) claims in Maryland through the state’s official unclaimed property office, usually under the comptroller or treasury.
• You can typically search and file claims online for free, or by mail and sometimes in person.
• To avoid delays:
  • Choose the correct claim type (owner, business, heir, etc.).
  • Provide clear copies of ID, proof of address, and any supporting records.
  • Make sure documents connect your name and address to what’s in the unclaimed property listing.
• Claims may take from a few weeks to a few months to process, depending on complexity.
• If you get a denial or request for more information, read it carefully and respond using the instructions from the Maryland unclaimed property office.
• Always verify that you are using official Maryland government channels, and be cautious of unsolicited offers that demand upfront fees.

By understanding how Maryland’s unclaimed property system works and preparing your documents in advance, you can give yourself the best chance of a smooth claim process through the state’s official office.