Documents You Need To Claim Unclaimed Assets in Washington State

Finding out you may have unclaimed money in Washington can be exciting—but the claim will only move forward if you provide the right documents. This guide walks through the common paperwork and proof people are usually asked for when claiming unclaimed property in Washington, and how to get ready before you use any official channels.

HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government agency or a claim-processing site. This article is meant to help you understand the process so you can work more smoothly with the Washington State unclaimed property office or other official offices.

What “Unclaimed Assets” Usually Mean in Washington

In Washington, unclaimed assets (also called unclaimed property) usually include things like:

• Bank accounts that were inactive for years
• Uncashed checks (payroll, refund, insurance payments)
• Utility deposits and refunds
• Insurance proceeds
• Safe deposit box contents
• Some retirement accounts or investment accounts that went dormant

When these accounts stay inactive and the owner cannot be contacted, Washington law typically requires the company holding the money to turn it over to the state. The state then holds it until the rightful owner or heir files a claim.

To actually receive the money or property, you usually have to:

1. Search for unclaimed property under your name through the state’s official unclaimed property website or office, and
2. Submit a claim with documentation proving you are the owner or you are legally entitled to the asset.

This guide focuses on step 2: what documents are usually required.

Basic Documents Most Washington Claimants Need

For almost every type of claim in Washington, you can expect to need two main things:

1. Proof of identity, and
2. Proof that you are the right person for that specific property record.

1. Proof of Identity

Washington’s unclaimed property office generally needs to confirm that you are who you say you are. Commonly accepted documents include:

• State-issued driver license or ID card (Washington or another state)
• U.S. passport or foreign passport (sometimes with additional ID)
• Military ID (in some cases)

If your current legal name is different from the name listed on the unclaimed property (for example, due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change), you may also need:

• Marriage certificate
• Divorce decree
• Court order for legal name change

These documents help the state connect your current identity to the name on the property record.

2. Proof of Address or Connection to the Owner

In addition to ID, Washington typically asks for proof that you lived at (or were connected to) the address or account shown in the property record at some point. Common examples:

• Old utility bills (electric, water, gas, internet)
• Bank statements
• Lease agreements or rental contracts
• Mortgage statements
• Pay stubs or employer correspondence
• Tax documents (like a W-2 showing the old address)

If you are claiming on behalf of a business, you may need documents that tie you to the company (more on that below).

Quick Reference: Typical Documents by Claim Type

The table below summarizes common document needs for different situations in Washington. Requirements can vary by case, so it’s always best to check instructions on the official Washington unclaimed property portal or office.

Documents Needed for a Standard Individual Claim in Washington

If you’re claiming unclaimed property that belongs to you, and the name on the record matches your current legal name, your documentation is usually simpler.

You’ll typically need:

1. Proof of Identity

   • One clear copy of a valid photo ID, such as:
     • Washington driver license
     • Other state driver license or ID
     • U.S. passport

2. Proof of Address or Ownership To show you are the same person who owned the account or was owed the money, you may be asked for:

   • A utility bill or bank statement with:
     • Your name
     • The address listed in the unclaimed property record (if it shows an address)
   • A pay stub from the employer listed on the property record
   • A lease, mortgage statement, or official letter with the same address

3. Name Change Documentation (if applicable) If your last name or first name is different from what appears on the record, you may need:

   • Marriage certificate (showing maiden name and married name)
   • Divorce decree (showing a name reversion)
   • Court order documenting any legal name change

If you no longer have older documents, the Washington unclaimed property office may provide alternate documentation options or allow for additional explanation. Their staff can usually clarify what substitutes are acceptable.

Documents Needed When You’re Claiming for a Deceased Person (Heir Claims)

When a person has passed away and left unclaimed property behind, Washington usually requires several extra documents to confirm:

1. That the person is deceased.
2. That you are legally entitled to claim on their behalf.

Common Required Documents for Heir Claims

1. Death Certificate

   • A certified copy of the decedent’s death certificate is typically required.

2. Your Proof of Identity

   • Same as for an individual claim (driver license, state ID, passport).

3. Proof of Relationship To show why you’re entitled to the property, you may need:

   • Birth certificate (if you are a child of the deceased)
   • Marriage certificate (if you are a spouse)
   • Adoption papers (if applicable)
   • Other documents that clearly show the family relationship

4. Estate or Probate Documents (depending on the situation) Requirements can vary widely depending on the size of the estate, whether probate was opened, and state law. Common examples:

   • Will naming you as beneficiary
   • Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration from the probate court, appointing an executor or personal representative
   • Small estate affidavit or similar document if the estate is small enough to avoid formal probate (Washington has specific rules about when these can be used)

Sometimes, the personal representative named by the court will be the one who files the claim, then distributes the funds through the estate. In other cases, heirs may claim directly under simplified estate procedures.

Because estate law is specific and can be complex, it’s often a good idea to:

• Contact the Washington unclaimed property office for guidance on what documents are needed in your situation, and
• Consider speaking with a probate attorney or legal aid organization if the estate is complicated or large.

Documents for Business or Organization Claims in Washington

If you’re claiming unclaimed assets for a business, nonprofit, or other organization registered in Washington (or one that did business in Washington), the state typically requires proof of:

1. Your identity, and
2. Your authority to act for the business, and
3. The business’s connection to the property.

Typical Business Claim Documentation

1. Your Personal ID

   • Your driver license, state ID, or passport.

2. Business Documentation To show the entity exists (or existed) and matches the name on the unclaimed property:

   • Business license
   • Articles of incorporation or organization
   • Partnership agreement (for partnerships)
   • Fictitious business name (DBA) registration

3. Proof of Your Authority To prove you’re allowed to represent the business:

   • Corporate resolution naming you as an authorized officer
   • Partnership agreement listing you as a partner
   • Letter on company letterhead signed by an authorized person (depending on the state’s requirements)
   • For sole proprietorships, proof that you are the sole owner (business license, tax documents, etc.)

4. Proof the Business Owned the Asset You may also be asked for:

   • Old bank statements
   • Invoices or payment records related to the business and the entity that reported the unclaimed property
   • Tax records showing the business at the address tied to the property record

If the business has closed or dissolved, extra documents may be needed to show you still have the legal right to collect money on its behalf, such as dissolution papers or assignment documents.

How to Get Ready Before Filing a Claim in Washington

Before you go to the official Washington unclaimed property portal or office, it often helps to:

1. Review the property record carefully.

   • Note the exact name, address, and reporting company listed.
   • Check if the amount is listed (some records show “over $100” instead of an exact number).

2. Make a checklist of documents you likely need:

   • Photo ID (current and unexpired if possible)
   • Any paperwork that connects you or your business to the name/address on the record
   • Additional documents if you are an heir, executor, or business representative

3. Gather and scan/photograph key documents.

   • Many official portals now allow online document uploads.
   • Make sure scans or photos are clear, readable, and show all edges of the document.

4. Check the official Washington unclaimed property instructions.

   • Requirements can change over time.
   • The official site or office is the best source for current, precise rules.

How Washington Claims Are Usually Submitted

While this site cannot accept claims, people in Washington typically have three main ways to submit their unclaimed property claim:

1. Online through the official Washington unclaimed property portal

   • Often the fastest option for standard individual claims.
   • Usually allows you to upload copies of your required documents.

2. By mail

   • You may need to print and sign a claim form and mail it with photocopies (or sometimes certified copies) of:
     • Your ID
     • Supporting documents
   • If mailing originals (only if required), use a trackable mailing method and keep copies for your records.

3. In person (if the state allows it)

   • Some states provide limited in-person assistance through state agencies or at public events.
   • In Washington, you may need to contact the unclaimed property division or state treasurer’s office to ask whether in-person help or drop-off is available.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by the Washington State unclaimed property office or the state treasurer. They will explain accepted submission methods and any special requirements.

What Happens After You Submit a Claim in Washington

Once you submit your claim and documents through official channels, the process usually includes:

1. Initial Review

   • Staff confirm your claim form is complete and the basic required documents are included.
   • If something is missing, they may send you a request for additional information.

2. Verification

   • The office verifies that:
     • Your identity matches the name on the property.
     • Your documents support your connection to the account, address, or business.
     • For estate claims, they confirm your legal entitlement under Washington law.

3. Decision

   • If your claim is approved, the state typically issues:
     • A check mailed to the address you provided, or
     • An electronic payment if that option is offered and you selected it.
   • If your claim is denied or only partially approved, you should receive a written explanation.

4. Timeline

   • Processing times can vary depending on:
     • The complexity of the claim (individual vs. multi-heir estate, for example)
     • Staffing and workload at the state office
   • Simple individual claims are often processed faster than estate or business claims.

If you’re concerned about timing or haven’t heard anything for a while, you can usually contact the Washington unclaimed property office using the phone number or email listed on the official state website.

Common Reasons Washington Claims Get Delayed or Denied

Many delays and denials are due to documentation issues that can often be avoided. Common problems include:

• Missing or blurry ID copies

  • If the state cannot clearly see your name, photo, or expiration date, they may ask you to resubmit.

• No proof that ties you to the address or company

  • If the only document you submit is a current ID, but the unclaimed property record is from an old address or former employer, the office may need more proof.

• Unclear relationship in heir claims

  • If you say you are the child, spouse, or sibling of the deceased but do not include documents that prove it, the claim may be put on hold.

• Outdated or incomplete estate documents

  • For example, a will that names an executor, but no court documents proving that executor was officially appointed.

• Incorrect or incomplete claim forms

  • Skipped signatures, missing dates, or incomplete fields on paper or online forms.

To reduce the risk of problems:

• Read instructions from the Washington unclaimed property office carefully.
• Double-check that required documents are included and easily readable.
• If something is unclear, consider calling the state office before submitting.

If Your Claim Is Denied: What You Can Usually Do

If your claim is denied by the Washington unclaimed property office, you typically have options:

1. Review the denial notice carefully.

   • The notice should explain the reason, such as:
     • “Insufficient documentation of relationship”
     • “Failure to prove ownership”
     • “Conflicting claim from another party”

2. Submit additional documentation.

   • Often, providing extra records (like more detailed estate documents or older bills) can resolve the issue.

3. Ask about an appeal or review process.

   • Many states give you the right to request a review or appeal if you believe your claim was wrongly denied.
   • The process can vary, but may involve:
     • A written request for reconsideration
     • Additional evidence
     • In some cases, administrative hearings

4. Consider legal assistance for complex disputes.

   • If multiple people claim entitlement or if large amounts are involved, you may want to consult an attorney familiar with Washington estate or property law.

How to Confirm You’re Using Official Washington Channels (Avoiding Scams)

Because unclaimed money is involved, scammers sometimes try to charge fees or collect personal information by pretending to be from a government office. Some general tips:

• Look for a .gov website.
  Washington’s official agencies use web addresses that end in “.gov”, not “.com” or “.org.”

• Be cautious about fees.

  • The state itself typically does not charge a fee to search or file a claim for unclaimed property.
  • Some private “finders” or “locators” charge a percentage to help people file claims. Using them is usually optional; you can often work directly with the state office at no cost.

• Do not share sensitive information via email or text unless you are certain you are communicating with an official state account.

  • Be cautious if someone contacts you unexpectedly asking for:
    • Social Security number
    • Bank account information
    • Credit card numbers

• Call the official Washington unclaimed property office.

  • If you get a suspicious letter or phone call about unclaimed money, you can contact the official office using the number listed on the Washington State Treasurer or unclaimed property website to verify it.

If You Don’t Qualify or Can’t Prove Your Claim

Sometimes, even if you believe the money is yours, you might not be able to provide enough documentation under Washington’s rules. In that situation, you may want to:

• Ask the state office whether alternative documents can be accepted.

  • For example, if you no longer have old bills, they may accept tax transcripts, employer verification, or bank letters instead.

• Check for other assistance resources.

  • While unclaimed property is specific and limited, if you’re facing financial hardship, you can look into:
    • Washington State benefit programs (such as food, cash, or medical assistance)
    • Local community organizations, nonprofits, and churches
    • 211 (by dialing 2-1-1 in many areas) to get referrals for local aid and counseling resources

These are separate from unclaimed property but may help if you were counting on this money and the claim cannot be approved.

By understanding the documents Washington typically requires—proof of identity, proof of past address or account ownership, and, when needed, estate or business records—you can prepare a complete claim packet and work more smoothly with the Washington unclaimed property office through its official channels.