Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Unclaimed Assets in Vermont

If you have ever lived, worked, or done business in Vermont, you may have unclaimed money or property waiting for you. This can include forgotten bank accounts, old paychecks, utility deposits, insurance payouts, or other funds that were never delivered.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains, in plain language, how to search for and claim unclaimed assets in Vermont through official channels. This site is not a government agency or claim portal. Instead, it walks you through what typically happens and how to work with the official Vermont unclaimed property office.

What Are Unclaimed Assets in Vermont?

Unclaimed assets (also called unclaimed property) are money or property that a business or organization owes you but could not deliver. After a certain period with no contact, they are turned over to the State of Vermont, which holds them for the rightful owner.

Common examples include:

• Bank accounts that were forgotten or inactive
• Uncashed paychecks or commission checks
• Utility refunds or security deposits (electric, cable, phone, internet)
• Uncashed money orders or cashier’s checks
• Insurance proceeds or refunds
• Safe deposit box contents
• Stock dividends or other securities-related funds
• Refunds from landlords or businesses

The Vermont unclaimed property program does not typically handle real estate, cars, or most personal physical property you still possess. It focuses mainly on financial assets and certain stored contents.

Who Can Search for Unclaimed Property in Vermont?

Most people who have a connection to Vermont can search, including:

• Current and former Vermont residents
• Out-of-state residents who:
  • Previously lived or worked in Vermont
  • Did business with a Vermont company
  • Had accounts or policies with Vermont addresses
• Heirs and family members of someone who has died and may have left unclaimed property
• Businesses, non-profits, and organizations with Vermont ties

You do not need to prove eligibility just to search. Proof is only required when you file a claim.

Step 1: Gather Basic Information Before You Search

You can search without documents, but a few details can help you find more results and avoid confusion with people who have similar names.

Have these ready if possible:

• Full legal name
• Previous names (maiden name, married name, aliases, initials)
• Past Vermont addresses (even partial street names or towns)
• Approximate years you lived or worked in Vermont
• Name of any Vermont businesses you owned or managed

If you are looking for a deceased relative’s property, note:

• Their full legal name and any other names used
• Their last known Vermont address
• Date of birth and date of death
• Your relationship to them

You do not need Social Security numbers just to run a basic search, but they may be requested later to verify your claim.

Step 2: Use Vermont’s Official Unclaimed Property Search

Each state has its own official unclaimed property system. For Vermont:

• The official unclaimed property program is run by the State of Vermont, typically under the State Treasurer’s Office.
• You can usually search online for free through the state’s unclaimed property search tool.
• If you cannot access the internet, many people instead:
  • Call the State Treasurer’s unclaimed property division, or
  • Request a printed claim form by mail.

To be sure you are on the official Vermont site (and not a scam or a paid service):

• Look for references to the State of Vermont and the State Treasurer.
• Check that there are no fees to search or to file a claim.
• Official sites often end in “.gov”.

HowToGetAssistance.org is not connected to this portal and cannot perform searches or submit claims on your behalf. You must go through the official Vermont unclaimed property office.

Step 3: Run Your Name Search (What to Expect)

On the official Vermont unclaimed property search tool, you’ll typically:

1. Enter your last name and first name.
2. Optionally add city or zip code to narrow the search.
3. Run the search and review the list of potential matches.

When reviewing results, look for:

• Your name (including spelling variations)
• Old addresses you recognize
• Businesses or employers you recognize
• The property holder (for example, a specific bank, insurer, or employer)

If you see a listing that looks like it might be yours, most systems let you:

• Click the property, then
• Add it to a “cart” or claim list to start your claim.

You can typically select multiple items and file one claim for all of them.

Step 4: Identify What Type of Claim You Need

The official Vermont system will usually ask what type of claimant you are. This matters because the required documents differ.

Below is a general comparison to help you prepare:

*Exact requirements are set by the official Vermont unclaimed property office and may change, so always follow the instructions on the official forms.

Step 5: Gather Required Documents

Once you select the property and identify your claimant type, the Vermont system will typically list what documents you must submit. These often include:

For Individual Claims (Your Own Property)

You may be asked for:

• Government-issued photo ID, such as:
  • Driver’s license
  • State ID card
  • Passport
• Proof of your current mailing address, such as:
  • Utility bill
  • Bank statement
  • Lease or mortgage statement
• Proof you lived at the address listed in the claim, such as:
  • Old utility bill
  • Old bank statement
  • Tax document
  • Pay stub or W-2 from that address (if available)

If you do not have old documents, the Vermont office may accept alternative proofs. Their staff can usually explain options if you call their official number.

For Deceased Owner / Heir Claims

In addition to the items above, you will often need:

• Death certificate for the deceased owner
• Proof of your relationship (for example):
  • Birth certificate (for a child)
  • Marriage certificate (for a spouse)
  • Other legal documents showing kinship
• Estate or legal authority documents, such as:
  • Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration
  • Small estate affidavit (if applicable under Vermont law)
  • Will and probate documents (if any)

The Vermont office may have specific rules on when an estate must be opened and what documents are accepted. Instructions are usually provided with the claim form or on the official site.

For Business or Organization Claims

You may be asked for:

• Business registration or incorporation documents
• Tax ID / EIN information (do not email this unless the state specifically directs you to a secure method)
• Proof of authority to act for the business, such as:
  • Corporate resolution
  • Document listing you as an officer, owner, or authorized signer
• Photo ID of the person signing the claim
• Supporting documents that link the business to the address or account on the claim

Step 6: Complete and Submit Your Vermont Claim

After you gather documents, you’ll generally need to:

1. Fill out a claim form

   • This may be done online, printed and mailed, or both.
   • Provide accurate personal information, including current mailing address, as this is where any check may be sent.

2. Sign the form

   • Some claims require a notarized signature, especially higher-dollar amounts or estate claims.
   • If notarization is required, you can usually find a notary at banks, credit unions, some shipping centers, or a town clerk’s office.

3. Attach or upload copies of documentation

   • Follow the Vermont office’s instructions closely.
   • Never send original documents unless specifically required; copies are usually acceptable.

4. Send your claim to the Vermont unclaimed property office

   • Online: Many claims can be submitted through the official Vermont unclaimed property website by uploading scanned documents.
   • By mail: If mailing, send the claim form and copies of documents to the postal address listed on the official Vermont form or website.
   • In some cases, you can call the office to confirm the best method for your situation.

HowToGetAssistance.org cannot accept or transmit your claim. Your claim must go directly to the State of Vermont’s unclaimed property program.

Step 7: What Happens After You File Your Claim?

Once you submit your claim, the Vermont unclaimed property office will typically:

1. Review your documents

   • Staff verify your identity and confirm that you match the original owner or heir.
   • They check that all required documentation is complete.

2. Contact you if something is missing

   • If documents are unclear or missing, they may send a letter, email, or call the number you provided.
   • Your claim may be delayed until you respond.

3. Approve or deny the claim

   • If approved, they generally issue a check or, in some cases, transfer other assets to you.
   • If denied, they usually provide a reason and may allow you to submit additional information or pursue an appeal or review.

Typical Timelines

Exact processing times vary, but commonly:

• Simple claims with clear documentation may be processed in a few weeks to a few months.
• More complex claims (heirs, estates, older records) can take longer, especially if legal documents are needed.

If you have not heard anything for a while, you can usually:

• Call the official Vermont unclaimed property office and ask for status, using your claim number if one was assigned.

Common Reasons Vermont Unclaimed Property Claims Are Delayed or Denied

Some typical issues that cause problems:

• Missing or unreadable ID

  • Blurry photos or copies
  • Expired IDs not accepted in some cases

• No proof of connection to the address on the claim

  • For example, you cannot show you ever lived or did business at the listed address

• Name mismatch

  • Different spelling, nicknames, or changed last name without proof (e.g., no marriage certificate)

• Incomplete heir/estate documentation

  • No death certificate
  • No proof of relationship
  • No documentation showing you are the legal representative of the estate

• Unsigned or undated forms, or missing notarization when required

If your claim is denied, check the official notice from the Vermont office. It often explains:

• The reason for denial
• Whether you can submit additional information
• Whether you may appeal or request reconsideration

For appeals or complicated cases, some people choose to consult an attorney who understands Vermont estate or property law. This is a personal decision and not required by the state in most basic claims.

How to Verify You Are Using Official Vermont Channels (and Avoid Scams)

Unclaimed property is a target for scams. To protect yourself:

Signs You Are on an Official Vermont Unclaimed Property Site

• The site clearly identifies the State of Vermont and typically the State Treasurer.
• The web address usually ends in “.gov” (for example, a Vermont state government domain).
• The search and claim process are free.
• The site lists official phone numbers and mailing addresses for a Vermont state office.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Someone asks you to pay a fee up front to search or claim your property.
• You receive unsolicited calls, emails, or letters guaranteeing they can “unlock” your money for a large percentage.
• You are pressured to sign over a large share of your unclaimed property to a third party.
• A website looks generic, does not mention State of Vermont, and does not have a clear government affiliation.

Some legitimate “finder” or “locator” services do exist and may charge a fee for helping you gather documents and file claims. However, you can always file directly with the State of Vermont yourself at no cost. If you consider using a third party, review any agreement carefully.

If you are unsure whether a communication is real:

• Use a phone number or address found independently on the State of Vermont government website, not the number in a suspicious email or letter.
• Ask the Vermont unclaimed property office to verify whether they contacted you.

What If You Don’t Find Anything in Vermont?

If your Vermont search shows no results, you may still have unclaimed property in other states.

Consider searching in:

• Every state where you have lived or worked
• States where your employers were based
• States where you opened bank accounts, credit cards, or insurance policies
• The state where a deceased relative lived or did business

Each state typically has its own official unclaimed property website and search tool. You can also:

• Call 211 in many areas to ask for help finding your state’s official unclaimed property contact information.

Helpful Tips to Make the Process Smoother

• Search under all variations of your name

  • Include middle names or initials
  • Try maiden names or previous married names

• Repeat searches occasionally

  • New property is turned over to the state each year. You may not show up today, but could appear later.

• Keep copies of everything you send

  • Claim forms
  • IDs
  • Supporting documents

• Update the Vermont unclaimed property office if your mailing address changes

  • This helps ensure that any check or correspondence reaches you.

• Be patient but persistent

  • Complex cases can take time, but you can call the official office to ask about status or needed documents.

By following these steps and working directly with the official Vermont unclaimed property program, many people are able to locate and recover money they did not realize they had. HowToGetAssistance.org cannot process claims or check status but can help you understand what to expect so you can move forward confidently through the State of Vermont’s channels.