Detailed Answer
Under Wyoming law, two distinct offices handle estate administration (probate) and unclaimed property claims.
1. Estate Administration (Probate)
Probate matters fall under the jurisdiction of the District Court in the decedent’s county of residence. The Wyoming Probate Code (Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 2-4-101 et seq.) governs all aspects of estate administration, including:
- Filing a petition for probate of a will.
- Appointment of a personal representative.
- Inventorying and distributing estate assets.
- Handling creditor claims against the estate.
To begin probate: locate the clerk of your county’s District Court. Submit the required forms, a death certificate, and any original wills. The court clerk will assign a case number and schedule required notices. For full statutory text, see Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 2-4 (Probate Code) at https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title2.pdf.
2. Unclaimed Property Claims
Wyoming’s Uniform Unclaimed Property Act (Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 9-3-101 et seq.) charges the State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Division with holding and returning lost or abandoned assets. Common unclaimed property includes uncashed checks, forgotten bank accounts, insurance proceeds, and safe-deposit box contents.
To file a claim:
- Search the online database: https://treasurer.wyo.gov/Programs/unclaimed-property.
- Submit a claim form with proof of ownership (ID, account records).
- Wait for the Division to verify and release funds.
For details on reporting and claiming unclaimed property, see Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 9-3 (Unclaimed Property) at https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title9.pdf.
Helpful Hints
- Always start in the county where the decedent lived for probate.
- Gather original documents (wills, death certificates) before filing.
- Check both the District Court and State Treasurer websites for forms and fees.
- Keep detailed records of all filings and correspondence.
- Unclaimed property searches are free and open online—no attorney needed to start.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance on your specific situation.