Have you ever moved and forgotten about a security deposit, or perhaps you’re owed money from a closed bank account? Millions of dollars in unclaimed funds are waiting to be reunited with their rightful owners in Massachusetts. Often referred to as “Massachusetts Treasury Unclaimed Money,” these funds are held by various entities, including state and federal courts, until claimed. This guide focuses on how to navigate the process of finding and claiming money that might be rightfully yours, specifically addressing funds held by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts, a significant source of unclaimed funds in the state.
Discovering Unclaimed Funds in Massachusetts Courts
Locating unclaimed funds held by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Massachusetts starts with an online search. To begin, you will need a PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) account. This system allows access to case and docket information from federal courts.
- Create a PACER Account: Visit the PACER website (http://www.pacer.gov/) to register for an account if you don’t already have one.
- Access the Court’s ECF System: Once you have your PACER login, navigate to the District of Massachusetts Bankruptcy Court’s ECF (Electronic Case Files) page: (https://ecf.mab.uscourts.gov/).
- Run an Unclaimed Funds Report: After logging in, look for “Reports” in the top blue menu. Click on it and then select “Unclaimed Funds” from the report list.
- Specify Search Parameters: You can refine your search by entering specific dates or other relevant criteria to narrow down the results.
- View the Report: The system will generate a report detailing unclaimed funds based on your search parameters.
This report provides information on funds held by the court from bankruptcy cases, which may be due to you or your business.
How to Apply for Payment of Your Unclaimed Funds
Once you’ve identified unclaimed funds, the next step is to apply for payment. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts has a standardized application process to ensure claims are processed efficiently and legally. It’s crucial to use the correct forms and follow the instructions provided by the Court.
The Court utilizes a specific application, instructions, and order form, detailed in Standing Order 2021-01, which you can find on their website. When preparing your application, keep the following points in mind:
- Original Signatures Required: All notarized documents and affidavits must have original signatures. Copies are not accepted.
- Notarization is Mandatory: Where indicated on the forms, original signatures must be properly notarized. For documents notarized outside the U.S., ensure they meet specific legal requirements, possibly by contacting the relevant U.S. Embassy or the embassy of the country of origin.
- Government-Issued Photo ID: You must present a government-issued photo ID when filing your application to verify your identity.
- Name Change Documentation: If your current name differs from the name on file with the Court, you must provide official documentation of your name change (e.g., marriage certificate, court order).
- Address Verification: If you are claiming funds related to a previous address, you need to provide documentation linking you to that address, such as an old utility bill, license, or tax bill. If such documentation is unavailable, a notarized affidavit explaining your use of the prior address may be accepted, though the Court may request additional proof.
Understanding Funds Locator Services
Be aware of “funds locators”—companies that offer to find and recover unclaimed funds for a fee. While these services can be helpful, especially if you find the process daunting, remember that you can directly claim your funds without using a locator. If you choose to use a funds locator, they must provide the Court with a copy of their agreement with you (the Claimant). The Court will ensure that funds are paid to the rightful claimant, so checks are always issued to the Claimant, although they may be sent “in care of” the funds locator.
Specific Requirements for Businesses
If you are claiming unclaimed funds on behalf of a defunct business, you will need to provide substantial documentation proving your entitlement to the funds. This might include business records, dissolution documents, or other legal paperwork. In such cases, seeking advice from legal counsel is highly recommended to navigate the legal complexities involved.
Filing Your Application for Payment
You can file your application either electronically or by mail:
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Electronic Filing (ECF): Attorneys who are authorized ECF filers should use this method. When filing electronically, it’s important to use the correct event codes to protect personal information. The “Application for Payment of Unclaimed Funds” is a public event, while “Unclaimed Fund Support Documentation” is a non-public event. Contact the Clerk’s Office for any filing questions.
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Filing by Mail: If you cannot file electronically, mail your application and all supporting documents to:
United States Bankruptcy Court
District of Massachusetts
Attn: Finance Department
5 Post Office Square, Suite 1150
Boston, MA 02109-3945
Claim Processing and What to Expect
Once your application is received, it will be officially recorded and sent to the Finance Department for review. They will check for completeness, verify that you’ve met all requirements, confirm the funds are still available, and then forward your application to the assigned Bankruptcy Judge for a final decision. Be patient, as processing times can vary.
If your application is incomplete or doesn’t meet the guidelines, you will receive a deficiency notice with a deadline to correct the issues. Failure to address the deficiencies by the deadline may result in your application being denied.
Need Help? Contact the Finance Department
For any questions about a filed application, you can contact the Court’s Finance Department directly at 617-748-6614.
Essential Forms for Your Claim
Make sure to use the required forms when applying for unclaimed funds. You can access and download them from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts website. Key forms include:
- Application for Payment of Unclaimed Funds (Required)
- Corporate Forms (Required for Business Entity Claimants)
- Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification (Required)
- Proposed Order Approving Application for Payment of Unclaimed Funds (Required)
- AO Form 213-Request for Vendor Information and TIN Certification
- AO Form 213P-Request for Payee Information and TIN Certification
For detailed instructions on completing and filing your application, refer to:
Instructions for Filing Application for Payment of Unclaimed Funds
Don’t let your money remain unclaimed. Take the first step today to search for and recover your Massachusetts Treasury unclaimed funds. By following this guide and utilizing the resources provided by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, you can navigate the process effectively and reclaim what is rightfully yours.
