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

If you have ever lived, worked, or done business in Wyoming, you may have money or property waiting for you as unclaimed assets. This could be an old paycheck, a utility deposit, or even the contents of a safe deposit box.

This guide explains how unclaimed property works in Wyoming, who can claim it, and the typical steps to file an unclaimed assets claim through official state channels. HowToGetAssistance.org is an informational resource only and is not a government office, claims processor, or application portal.

What Are Unclaimed Assets in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, unclaimed property (also called unclaimed assets) usually means money or property that a business or organization is holding for you but has lost contact with you for a certain period of time. After that period, the property is turned over to the state’s unclaimed property program for safekeeping.

Common examples include:

• Bank accounts that were inactive and then closed
• Uncashed paychecks or commission checks
• Refunds from utilities, phone companies, or insurance
• Security deposits (housing, utilities)
• Insurance policy proceeds and annuities
• Investment or brokerage accounts
• Dividends or interest payments
• Money orders or cashier’s checks
• Safe deposit box contents (contents may be sold if unclaimed over time, but proceeds are usually held)

The state holds these assets on behalf of the rightful owner (or their heirs) until someone files a valid claim.

Who Can File an Unclaimed Property Claim in Wyoming?

You can typically file a claim in Wyoming if:

• You are the original owner listed on the account or check
• You are a heir or beneficiary of the person listed (for example, a spouse or child of someone who has died)
• You are a legal representative, such as:
  • Executor or administrator of an estate
  • Court‑appointed guardian or conservator
  • Authorized representative for a business, trust, or organization

In many cases, you can file a claim even if:

• You no longer live in Wyoming, but the business that reported the property is in Wyoming
• Your name or address has changed since the asset was created
• The business that owed you the money has closed (the state is now holding the funds)

If you are unsure whether you qualify, the state unclaimed property office can typically explain what proof they require for your situation.

Step 1: Search for Unclaimed Property in Wyoming

The first step is to see if the state is holding any property in your name.

How to search

Most people search through:

• The official Wyoming unclaimed property website, using:
  • Your first and last name (try variations if applicable)
  • Any prior names (maiden names, former married names, name changes)
  • Names of businesses or organizations you own or manage
• The state unclaimed property phone line, where staff may assist you with a search
• Occasionally, mail notices or public announcements sent by the state

Because processes can change over time, it’s usually best to:

1. Look up your state’s Treasurer or Department of Revenue website.
2. Navigate to the “Unclaimed Property” section.
3. Use the official search tool provided there.

🔎 Tip: Search using every name and spelling you have used in Wyoming and other states. If you have moved around, you may need to check other states’ official unclaimed property sites as well.

Step 2: Identify and Select Your Property

If the search returns results, you will see a list of possible matches. For each item, you will typically see:

• Name of the owner
• Reported address or city
• Holder name (the business or organization that turned over the property)
• Estimated amount or property type (e.g., “over $100,” “less than $50,” or “safe deposit box contents”)

How to decide if it’s yours

A record is more likely to be yours if:

• The spelling of your name and address look familiar
• The property is from a company you recognize (former employer, insurance company, bank, utility provider)
• The timeframe makes sense (for example, you lived at that address during that year)

Typically you can click or select each record to begin a claim request. The system may allow you to claim multiple properties in one session, as long as they belong to the same person.

Step 3: Prepare the Documents You’ll Need

To approve your claim, the Wyoming unclaimed property office will usually require proof of identity and proof of ownership or connection to the property.

Below is a general guide. Exact requirements may change, so always review the instructions provided on the official Wyoming unclaimed property website or by the state office.

Commonly requested documents

For individuals (claiming your own property):

• Photo ID

  • Current driver’s license
  • State ID card
  • Passport or other government‑issued ID

• Proof of Social Security number, such as:

  • Social Security card
  • Tax document showing your SSN (like a W‑2 or 1099)

• Proof of address or ownership, depending on the property:

  • Utility bills, bank statements, or tax bills for the address listed
  • Old pay stubs or statements from the reporting company
  • Account statements showing you as the owner

• Name change documentation, if needed:

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

For heirs or beneficiaries (claiming on behalf of a deceased owner):

In addition to your own ID, you may need:

• Death certificate of the original owner
• Will, trust documents, or probate papers showing that you are an heir or representative
• Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration (if there is a formal estate)
• Affidavit of heirship, if applicable in your situation and allowed by the state

For businesses or organizations:

• Business formation documents, such as Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization
• Employer Identification Number (EIN) documentation
• Proof of current authority (statement showing you as an officer, manager, or authorized representative)
• Documentation tying the business to the address or account on the unclaimed property listing

Document Quick-Reference Table

Use this simple table to see which documents often apply in common Wyoming unclaimed property claim situations:

The state office may request additional documents depending on the specific property type and your relationship to the owner.

Step 4: File Your Claim Through Official Wyoming Channels

Once you’ve selected the property and gathered documents, the next step is actually filing the claim.

Processes can change, but Wyoming typically offers one or more of these options:

1. Online claim submission

Most people use the online system provided by the Wyoming unclaimed property office. The general steps often include:

1. Create an account or log in to the state’s unclaimed property system.
2. Select each property you want to claim and confirm your relationship to it.
3. Enter your current contact information, including mailing address and phone number.
4. Upload scanned copies or clear photos of required documents.
5. Review and certify that the information you provided is true and accurate.
6. Submit the claim for review.

Online systems typically provide a confirmation number or claim ID. Be sure to save or print this information for your records.

2. Mail‑in claims

Some claimants prefer or are required to print and mail the claim form. This may happen if:

• The online system instructs you to mail original documents or notarized forms
• You cannot upload documents electronically
• Your claim is complex (for example, involving estates or multiple heirs)

A typical mail‑in process looks like this:

1. Print the claim form from the official Wyoming unclaimed property website or request one from the office.
2. Fill out the form completely, following all instructions.
3. Attach copies of your supporting documents (and originals, only if specifically requested).
4. If required, have your signature notarized.
5. Mail the completed claim to the address provided on the form for the Wyoming unclaimed property office.

Always follow the current instructions on the official site or claim form, since mailing addresses and procedures can change.

3. In‑person assistance

In some cases, you may be able to visit a state office (such as the State Treasurer’s office) for help with:

• Understanding the claim form
• Verifying which documents you need
• Asking questions about complex claims

Call ahead using the official phone number listed by the Wyoming State Treasurer or unclaimed property office to confirm whether in‑person assistance is available and whether you need an appointment.

Step 5: What Happens After You File a Claim?

Once you file, the Wyoming unclaimed property staff will:

1. Review your claim form for completeness.
2. Compare your documents with the information on file from the business that reported the property.
3. Request additional information, if something is missing or unclear.
4. Approve or deny the claim, or place it on hold pending more documentation.

Typical review timelines

Processing times can vary. Many straightforward claims (for example, an individual claiming a recent paycheck with clear documentation) may be processed in a few weeks, while:

• Estate or heir claims
• Very old accounts
• Claims with incomplete documents

may take longer.

Most official Wyoming systems allow you to:

• Check claim status online using your claim ID, or
• Call the state unclaimed property office and provide your name and claim number.

If your claim is approved, the state will usually:

• Issue a check mailed to your address on file, or
• In some cases, direct‑deposit funds (if that is an option and you provided bank details)

For safe deposit box contents, the process can be more complex and may involve:

• Scheduling a time to pick up items, or
• Receiving sale proceeds if items were sold and converted to cash.

Common Reasons Wyoming Claims Are Delayed or Denied

Delays and denials often result from missing or incorrect information rather than ineligibility. Common issues include:

• Incomplete claim forms – unanswered questions or missing signatures
• Missing documents – not submitting a required ID, proof of address, or estate papers
• Mismatched names – name on the property does not match your current legal name and no proof of name change is provided
• Insufficient proof of relationship – heirs unable to show legal right to claim on behalf of the deceased
• Unreadable copies – blurry or cut‑off images of IDs and documents
• Outdated contact information – the state cannot reach you for clarification

If your claim is denied, the state office usually provides:

• A reason for denial, and
• Information on whether you can submit additional documents or file a new claim.

How to Fix Problems or Appeal a Decision

If your claim is denied or significantly delayed:

1. Contact the Wyoming unclaimed property office using the official phone number or email on the state’s Treasurer or unclaimed property page.
2. Ask for specific details about what is missing or why the claim was not approved.
3. Provide additional documents they request, such as:
   • A clearer copy of your ID
   • Extra proof of address
   • Additional estate or legal documents

In some situations, there may be a formal appeal or review process within the state agency. The unclaimed property office can explain:

• Whether you can appeal in writing, and
• Where to send your appeal letter or additional documentation.

Keep copies of everything you send and note the dates when you mailed or uploaded documents.

Is There a Deadline to Claim Unclaimed Property in Wyoming?

Many states, including Wyoming, treat unclaimed property as “perpetual” or “held indefinitely” for the rightful owner, especially for cash assets. This often means there is no strict deadline for individuals to submit a claim.

However:

• Certain types of property, like safe deposit box contents, may eventually be sold by the state, with the proceeds held for the owner instead.
• Laws and policies can change, so it is generally better to claim as soon as you become aware of unclaimed property.

To get the most accurate information, check the Wyoming State Treasurer’s unclaimed property information or contact the office directly.

How to Verify You’re Using the Official Wyoming Unclaimed Property Channel

Unclaimed property is a common target for scams, especially online. You can protect yourself by verifying that you are working with official Wyoming state resources.

Tips to avoid scams

• Use official state websites.
  • Look for addresses that clearly show they belong to the State of Wyoming or a well‑identified state agency (such as the State Treasurer).
• Be cautious with third‑party services.
  • Some private “finders” or “locators” offer to help you claim unclaimed property in exchange for a percentage of your money. In many cases, you can file a claim yourself for free directly with the state.
• Never pay up front just to search.
  • Official state unclaimed property searches are typically free of charge.
• Protect your personal information.
  • The official state site may ask for personal details once you start a claim. This is normal. However, be cautious if:
    • A site you do not recognize requests bank passwords or unusual personal data.
    • You receive emails or calls pressuring you to act quickly or pay fees to receive your money.
• Confirm phone numbers.
  • If someone calls claiming to be from the unclaimed property office, you can hang up and call back using the number listed on the official Wyoming State Treasurer or state government directory, not the number provided by the caller.

If you are uncertain whether you’re using the correct site, you can:

• Call the Wyoming State Treasurer’s Office using a phone number listed on the official state government directory and ask to be connected to the unclaimed property division.

What If You Don’t Find Any Unclaimed Property?

If your search does not show any property in your name in Wyoming:

• Try searching again using:
  • Different spellings of your name
  • Prior addresses and name variations
• Check other states, especially:
  • Places where you previously lived or worked
  • States where former employers or financial institutions were based
• Re‑check periodically.
  • Businesses continue to turn over unclaimed property to states on a regular schedule, so new records may appear in the future.

Even if you do not find unclaimed property now, you can use this opportunity to:

• Update your contact information with current banks, employers, and service providers
• Cash checks promptly and close old accounts properly
• Keep a personal record of where you have financial accounts, policies, and deposits

Key Takeaways for Filing an Unclaimed Assets Claim in Wyoming

• Wyoming’s unclaimed property program holds money and property turned over by businesses when they cannot reach the owner.
• You can search for unclaimed assets for free using the state’s official unclaimed property resources.
• To file a claim, you will typically need:
  • Valid photo ID
  • Proof of Social Security number
  • Proof of address or ownership
  • Estate or name‑change documents, if applicable
• Claims can usually be filed online or by mail directly with the Wyoming unclaimed property office.
• Processing times vary; clear, complete documentation helps avoid delays.
• Official Wyoming channels do not require upfront fees to search or file a standard claim.
• HowToGetAssistance.org does not process claims or handle money; it only provides general guidance so you can navigate the official Wyoming process more confidently.

By following these steps and using official state resources, you can find out whether Wyoming is holding any unclaimed assets in your name and, if so, move forward with an informed claim through the appropriate government office.