How To File an Unclaimed Assets Claim in Minnesota: Step‑by‑Step Guide

If you have ever moved, changed jobs, or closed accounts, there is a chance you might have unclaimed money waiting for you. In Minnesota, unclaimed assets are handled through a state-run process, and individuals can usually claim this property for free through official state channels.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains how unclaimed property works in Minnesota, what to gather before you file, how to submit a claim, and what to expect after you apply. This site is not a government agency or claim portal, but it can help you understand the typical steps so you can move forward with the official Minnesota unclaimed property office.

What Is “Unclaimed Property” in Minnesota?

In plain terms, unclaimed property (or unclaimed assets) is money or other financial property that belongs to you but has been inactive or unclaimed for a certain period of time.

In Minnesota, this often includes:

• Uncashed paychecks
• Old bank accounts (savings, checking, CDs)
• Unclaimed security deposits (rent or utilities)
• Unredeemed money orders or cashier’s checks
• Insurance policy benefits or refunds
• Safe deposit box contents (after a long period of no contact)
• Dividends or stock-related funds
• Refunds or credits from businesses and utilities

When the business, bank, or other “holder” cannot reach you for a set period of time (called a dormancy period), they are usually required by law to turn the funds over to the state’s unclaimed property division. The state then keeps the property on your behalf until you or your heirs file a valid claim.

Who Can File an Unclaimed Assets Claim in Minnesota?

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

• The original owner of the property (the name listed on the account or check)
• A joint owner or co-owner
• A legal heir or beneficiary of a deceased owner
• An executor, personal representative, or trustee handling someone’s estate
• An authorized representative of a business, nonprofit, or other entity

Typical situations include:

• You moved and didn’t update your address with a bank or employer.
• You changed jobs and forgot about your final paycheck or retirement refund.
• A relative passed away, and the family is just now finding out about old accounts.
• Your business closed or changed addresses, and credits or refunds were never received.

In all cases, the Minnesota unclaimed property office usually requires you to prove two things:

1. You are the person (or entity) listed on the property, or legally allowed to claim on their behalf.
2. You have a connection to the address or organization shown on the unclaimed property record.

How To Search for Unclaimed Property in Minnesota

You generally start with an online search through the official Minnesota unclaimed property website run by the state’s Department of Commerce or similar agency.

Typical steps:

1. Go to your state’s official unclaimed property search page (for Minnesota, look for a government website ending in “.gov” that clearly identifies the state).
2. Enter your last name and first name.
   • Try other versions, such as a maiden name, previous married name, or common misspellings.
3. Search using past addresses or business names, if relevant.
4. Review the list of potential matches and look for:
   • Your name (or your business’s name)
   • Old addresses where you lived, worked, or received mail
   • Names of employers, banks, or companies you recognize

If you find a record that looks like yours, the website usually provides an option to “claim” or “start a claim” and walks you through specific questions.

If you cannot access the internet or prefer another method, you can typically:

• Call the Minnesota unclaimed property office directly and ask about other ways to search.
• Request a paper claim form by mail.

Documents You May Need for a Minnesota Unclaimed Property Claim

The exact documents depend on who you are (owner, heir, business representative) and what type of property you are claiming. Still, many Minnesota claims require similar types of documentation.

Below is a general overview.

For Individual Owners (Claiming for Yourself)

You may be asked for:

• Government-issued photo ID
  • For example: driver’s license, state ID, passport.
• Proof of Social Security number
  • Such as a Social Security card, W‑2, or official tax form (redact sensitive info if requested).
• Proof of current address
  • Utility bill, bank statement, lease, or other recent mail.
• Proof of connection to the old address or property
  • Old utility bill, lease, pay stub, tax return, or other documentation that shows you lived or did business at the address listed on the claim.
• Any original documents related to the property
  • Old bank statements, policy documents, letters, or checks (if you still have them).

For Heirs or Estates (Claiming for a Deceased Person)

If the listed owner has died, Minnesota usually requires:

• A certified copy of the death certificate
• Proof of your relationship to the deceased
  • Birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other legal document.
• Estate or probate documents, if applicable
  • Letters of administration, letters testamentary, will, or court orders naming you as personal representative.
• Identification for the person filing the claim
  • Same as individual ID requirements.

For Business, Trusts, or Organizations

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

• Proof you are authorized to act for the entity
  • Corporate resolution, authorization letter, or documentation showing your role (e.g., owner, officer).
• Business formation documents
  • Articles of incorporation, partnership agreements, or similar records.
• Tax identification number (EIN) documentation
• Business-related proof of address
  • Utility bills, bank statements, invoices, or other records.

Quick Reference: Common Documents by Claim Type

*Exact requirements are set by the official Minnesota unclaimed property office and can vary by situation.

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

Once you have found property that looks like it belongs to you, the general claim process in Minnesota usually looks like this:

1. Start the Claim Online (or Request a Paper Form)

Most people file through the official Minnesota unclaimed property portal:

• Select the item(s) you believe are yours.
• Click the option to start a claim.
• Answer questions about:
  • Your current name and contact information
  • Any other names or addresses you have used
  • Your connection to the business or property listed

If online filing is not possible, you can often ask the state office to:

• Mail you a paper claim form, or
• Provide instructions to download and print a form from the official website.

2. Complete the Claim Form Carefully

Whether online or on paper:

• Use your legal name exactly as it appears on your ID.
• Provide all names you have used, including:
  • Maiden names
  • Nicknames
  • Previous married names
• Double-check dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and addresses.
• Clearly indicate if you are claiming as:
  • Owner
  • Heir
  • Executor/personal representative
  • Business representative

Missing or inconsistent information is a common reason for delays.

3. Gather and Attach Required Documents

The instructions from the Minnesota unclaimed property office will typically list exact document requirements for your type of claim.

Common upload or attachment types include:

• Copy of your photo ID
• Proof of address (current and/or historic)
• Death certificate and proof of relationship (for heirs)
• Court or estate papers (for executor/administrator claims)
• Business documents (for entity claims)

If you file online, you may be asked to upload scanned copies or clear photos.
If you file by mail, send copies, not originals, unless the state office specifically instructs you otherwise.

4. Sign and Submit Your Claim

Typical submission options:

• Online portal:
  • Electronically sign (e-sign) if available.
  • Upload all supporting documents before clicking “submit.”
• Mail:
  • Sign the form in ink.
  • Attach copies of required documents.
  • Mail to the official address listed on the claim instructions.

Keep:

• A copy of your claim form.
• A list of documents you submitted.
• The date you submitted (and tracking info, if mailed).

5. Wait for Review and Possible Follow-Up

After submission, the Minnesota unclaimed property office typically:

• Reviews your claim for completeness and accuracy.
• Confirms that you match the owner information on the property.
• May contact you by mail, email, or phone if:
  • Additional documents are needed.
  • Clarification is required.
  • Your claim is approved or denied.

Processing times can vary based on:

• The complexity of the claim (heirs and estates often take longer).
• The volume of claims the office is handling.
• How quickly you respond to requests for additional information.

If you have not heard back in a reasonable time, you can usually:

• Check the status through the official online portal, or
• Call or email the Minnesota unclaimed property office using contact information on the state’s .gov website.

What Happens After Your Claim Is Approved?

If the Minnesota unclaimed property office approves your claim, they typically:

• Issue a check payable to you (or your business/estate), or
• Transfer the value of certain assets in another approved way, depending on the type of property.

In most cases, you:

• Receive a check by mail at the address you provided on your claim form.
• Are responsible for keeping your address updated with the office if it changes while your claim is in process.

For safe deposit box contents or tangible items, the process may involve:

• Selling the items at auction and returning the proceeds to you, or
• Coordinating a way for you to claim the physical items, depending on state policy.

If you have questions about taxes, you may want to speak with a tax professional, as unclaimed property payments can sometimes have tax implications depending on the type of asset and your situation.

Common Reasons Minnesota Unclaimed Property Claims Are Delayed or Denied

Claims can be delayed or denied if:

• Required documents are missing
  • For example, no proof of address, no death certificate, or no court papers for an estate.
• Names do not match clearly
  • Differences between your claim, your ID, and the property record (such as major spelling differences or different last names) may require extra proof.
• The claimant cannot show a connection to the address or account
  • Especially for older claims, you may need additional documentation.
• Someone else has a stronger legal claim
  • For example, another heir with higher priority under Minnesota law or a court-appointed representative.
• The claim form is incomplete
  • Missing signatures, blank sections, or inconsistent information.

If your claim is denied, the Minnesota unclaimed property office typically explains why and may outline what steps, if any, you can take to correct or appeal the decision.

Can You Appeal or Ask for a Review?

If you disagree with a decision:

1. Read the denial or notice carefully.
   • Understand whether the issue is missing documents, legal eligibility, or something else.
2. Contact the Minnesota unclaimed property office using the phone or email listed on the official correspondence.
3. Ask:
   • What specifically caused the denial?
   • Can it be fixed by providing additional documentation?
   • Is there a formal appeal process or a way to request review?

The appeals or review process can vary based on state law and the type of claim, so it is best to follow the exact instructions from the official office.

For complex estate or disputed claims, some people choose to:

• Consult with an attorney who is familiar with probate, estates, or unclaimed property law in Minnesota.

How Long Do You Have To Claim Unclaimed Property in Minnesota?

In many states, there is no time limit for claiming most types of unclaimed property, and the state holds it for the rightful owner indefinitely. Minnesota follows this general approach for many claims, but specific rules can vary by property type.

Key points:

• Funds typically do not “expire” just because they are at the state unclaimed property office.
• However, they may stop earning interest, and stock or securities may be sold after a period of time, with the cash value held for you instead.
• For certain specialized funds or types of property, different rules may apply.

To be sure, review:

• The FAQ or policy information on the official Minnesota unclaimed property website.
• Any specific notes listed on your claim record.

How To Tell if You’re Using an Official Minnesota Unclaimed Property Channel (Avoiding Scams)

Because unclaimed property involves money, scams are common. Some companies offer to search for and claim money for you for a fee, even though you can usually claim it yourself for free through the state.

Here are some ways to protect yourself:

Signs You’re on an Official Channel

• The website is a .gov domain and clearly labeled as a Minnesota government site.
• The contact information (mailing address, phone numbers) matches typical state agency formats.
• There is clear explanation that there is no fee to search or file a claim through the state.

Red Flags for Potential Scams

• Someone calls or emails unexpectedly, offering to send you money if you pay a “processing fee” or give your bank information.
• A website asks you to send money or gift cards to “unlock” your unclaimed property.
• The website does not appear to be run by a government or well-known public agency and hides key contact details.
• Contracts pushing you to sign over a large percentage of your unclaimed funds without fully explaining your right to file directly with the state.

While legitimate “finder” or “locator” services do exist, you are generally not required to use them. You can usually:

• Go directly to the official Minnesota unclaimed property office and perform searches and file claims on your own at no cost.

If you are unsure whether a site or contact is legitimate, you can:

• Look up the Minnesota Department of Commerce or the state’s primary government website and navigate to the unclaimed property section from there.
• Call the official state office number listed on Minnesota government sites to verify.

What If You Don’t Find Any Unclaimed Property in Minnesota?

If your search turns up nothing right now, you can still:

• Try different spellings or older addresses.
• Search under maiden names, prior married names, or nicknames.
• Check for:
  • Family members, especially deceased relatives
  • Old business names or partnerships you were part of

You can also:

• Search other states’ official unclaimed property sites if you lived or worked elsewhere in the past.
• Mark your calendar to check again periodically, since new items may be turned over to the state each year.

In the meantime, to reduce the chance of future unclaimed property:

• Keep a list of active accounts and policies.
• Update your address with employers, banks, and insurance companies when you move.
• Cash checks promptly and follow up on refunds and deposits.

Key Takeaways for Filing an Unclaimed Assets Claim in Minnesota

• Minnesota’s unclaimed property program helps reunite people with forgotten or lost money, such as uncashed checks, old bank accounts, or insurance proceeds.
• You typically start by searching your name on the official Minnesota unclaimed property website or contacting the state office.
• To file a claim, you usually need to:
  • Complete a claim form (online or paper),
  • Provide proof of identity and address, and
  • Show your connection to the property (or legal authority if claiming for another person or an estate).
• Claims can be delayed if documents are incomplete or if names and addresses are not clearly connected, so it helps to read instructions carefully and submit all requested information.
• You can file directly with the Minnesota unclaimed property office, and there is usually no fee to search or submit a claim through official channels.
• HowToGetAssistance.org does not process claims or applications, but you can use the information here to better understand the process and then move forward with the appropriate Minnesota state office.