What is Unclaimed Property?

Unclaimed Property is a financial asset (e.g. money, or contents of a safety deposit box) that is unknown or lost, or has been left inactive, unclaimed or abandoned by its owner. Unclaimed Property assets are held by business or government entities (holders) for a set period of time, usually five years. If the holder is unable to locate or re-establish contact with the owner and return the asset, it is reported and remitted to the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Division of Unclaimed Property by law under FL Statute 717.

Why didn’t I hear of this before?

The Holder was likely trying to contact the Reported Owner, but either the name and address were incomplete, partially incorrect, or Reported Owner had moved or passed away.  The holder may try to contact the owner for a period of time (usually five years) before remitting the money to the State of Florida DFS – Division of Unclaimed Property.

How did you get this information?

As a Registered Agent with the DFS, the DFS grants us access to a database of the unclaimed funds that they currently hold.  This information includes, among other data, the Reported Owner and Address, Holder, Property Type, and Current Balance Available.  Much of this information is not available to the public for security reasons.

How did you find me?

As a licensed Private Investigator, I have access to various databases and genealogical archives which contain information about the persons that we contact. The databases are confidential, and Investigators are held to strict standards and guidelines as to their use.

Why do I need to provide my ID?

The State of Florida needs to be certain that they are disbursing funds to the correct person and the ID is proof that you are (a) living, and (b) the person that has signed the forms.  The ID cannot be expired, and must clearly show the name, ID number, date of birth, and expiration date.  Your current address and address on the ID do not have to match.

If you do not wish to provide a copy of your ID, you may provide a Notarized Sworn Statement, which must be fully completed, signed, and notarized.  A downloadable copy of the NSS can be found on our website here.

What forms of ID are acceptable?

Any current (unexpired) government-issued photo ID; e.g., a driver’s license, State ID card, passport, military ID.  The ID can be from any US State or any national government from any country.  See examples HERE.

If you do not wish to provide a copy of your ID, you may provide a Notarized Sworn Statement, which must be fully completed, signed, and notarized.  A downloadable copy of the NSS can be found on our website here.

How can I find a notary?

Most banks have a notary service.  The UPS Store also provides notary services for a small fee ($10 in Florida).

Are there any upfront costs?

No. Please do NOT send us any money. Our fee comes out of the unclaimed funds only AFTER the claim is approved by the State.  You will get your check directly from the State minus our fee.  There is NO risk to you.  There are NO hidden fees.  If our claim is denied, you will never be charged any costs or fees.

When will I get the money?

Approximately 90 days (3 months) after our claim is received by the State.

Can my money be direct deposited in a bank account?

No.  The State does not make direct deposits.  They will send your check directly to you at the address you provide on the agreement.

My address has changed since submitting my documents.  Will the post office forward my check to my current address?

Even though you may have signed up with the post office to have your mail forwarded to your new address, the post office may not forward government-issued checks.  Please call or email us with your updated address.  If a claim is already submitted to the DFS, you must contact us immediately for assistance in changing your address before processing is completed.