Millions of dollars in unclaimed money are waiting to be reunited with their rightful owners in Michigan. This money comes from forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, abandoned safe deposit boxes, and unclaimed stock certificates. Could some of it be yours? This guide will show you how to search for and claim your unclaimed property in Michigan.
Where Does Unclaimed Money Come From?
Unclaimed money and property often result from dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, valuables left in safe deposit boxes, and forgotten stock certificates. After a period of inactivity, these assets are turned over to the Michigan Department of Treasury for safekeeping until the owner claims them. Amounts can range from a small $50 windfall to thousands of dollars.
How to Search for Unclaimed Money in Michigan
Finding out if you have Unclaimed Money In Michigan is surprisingly easy:
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Visit the Official Website: Go to the Michigan Department of Treasury’s Unclaimed Property website (https://unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov/).
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Start Your Search: Click on the “Get Started” button and enter your first and last name.
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Review the Results: The website will generate a list of potential matches based on your name and variations of it. Carefully examine the list to see if any of the unclaimed property belongs to you.
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Expand Your Search: If you’ve lived in other states, consider searching the national database at https://unclaimed.org/ to see if you have unclaimed funds elsewhere.
How to Claim Your Unclaimed Property
If you find a match, follow these steps to claim your property:
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Select Your Property: Choose the property you believe belongs to you.
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Provide Required Information: You’ll need to provide information to verify your identity, such as your name, Social Security number, current address, and previous addresses.
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Submit Documentation: In some cases, you may need to provide supporting documentation like a copy of your driver’s license, Social Security card, or proof of previous addresses. This helps ensure the money goes to the correct person.
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File Your Claim Even If Unsure: If you’re unsure if the property is yours, you can still file a claim. The Michigan Department of Treasury will verify your information and determine if you’re the rightful owner.
Important Information About Claiming Unclaimed Property
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There is No Fee: Claiming your unclaimed property in Michigan is completely free. Be wary of any websites that charge fees for this service, as they are likely scams. The official Michigan Department of Treasury website will never charge you to reclaim your money.
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Track Your Claim: After filing your claim, you’ll receive a claim ID. Use this ID to track the status of your claim online at https://unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov/app/claim-status-search. Keep in mind that the approval process can take time, so be patient and check back periodically.
Don’t let your money sit unclaimed. Start your search today and see if you have lost funds waiting for you in Michigan.
