Detailed Answer
Short overview: After you file an unclaimed property claim in Rhode Island and the office has a 90‑day waiting or review period, one of a few things will usually happen: the state pays the claim, the state requests more documentation, the claim is denied, or the claim remains under further administrative review. Which outcome happens depends on whether the Division has enough proof of your ownership and whether any legal or administrative holds apply.
How the review typically works
When you submit a claim, the Rhode Island unclaimed property administrator (the Division of Taxation’s unclaimed property unit) reviews your paperwork and any supporting documents. During the review the Division checks the submitted evidence against the reported property, confirms identity and entitlement, and looks for competing claims. The initial 90‑day period is often used to complete this review, request additional proof, and process a decision.
Possible outcomes after the 90‑day period
- Claim approved and payment issued: If the Division is satisfied with your proof, it will authorize payment. Payment may be by check, electronic transfer, or other method the office uses. Expect instructions about how and when payment will be delivered.
- Request for additional documentation: The Division may ask for more records — for example ID, account statements, a death certificate (for estates), proof of business ownership, or a power of attorney. You should supply requested items quickly to avoid further delay.
- Claim denied or partially denied: The Division may deny a claim if it finds insufficient proof, a competing claim, or if the property does not match the Division’s records. A partial denial can occur if you prove entitlement to only part of the reported amount.
- Further administrative review or hold: The Division may place a hold if there is a legal dispute, a tax offset question, or if the property is subject to a lien or probate proceeding. Holds can extend review beyond 90 days.
What the Division should provide you
When the Division reaches a decision or needs more information, it should send a written notice describing the result or the items needed. If the Division denies your claim it should provide reasons and information about how to appeal or seek reconsideration.
If you haven’t heard anything after 90 days
- Check your claim status online if the state offers an online portal.
- Look for email or mailed notices asking for more records and check spam folders and mailing addresses.
- Contact the Rhode Island Unclaimed Property office directly to request a status update and to confirm whether the office needs more documentation.
Appeals and next steps if your claim is denied
If the Division denies your claim or you disagree with its decision, you can pursue administrative appeal options first. If administrative appeals do not resolve the matter, you may have the right to file a civil suit in Rhode Island courts to recover property. Follow the procedural directions provided by the Division for appeals, preserve all records, and meet any deadlines stated in denial notices.
Where to find official Rhode Island information
For official guidance and to check claim procedures and contact details, use the Rhode Island government resources for unclaimed property:
- Rhode Island Division of Taxation — Unclaimed Property information and claim portal: https://tax.ri.gov
- Rhode Island General Assembly statutes and statute search (search for “unclaimed property” or “escheat”): http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/
Important: This article summarizes common administrative steps and outcomes after a 90‑day review period. Specific timelines and appeal rules vary with the facts of each claim and with changes in administrative policy.
Disclaimer: This is general information only and is not legal advice. For advice about your specific claim and deadlines, consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney or contact the Rhode Island unclaimed property office directly.
Helpful Hints — What to do next
- Keep a complete file of everything you submit: claim form, IDs, bank statements, correspondence, and tracking numbers for mailed items.
- Respond quickly to any request for additional documentation. Missing items are the most common cause of delay.
- Use the state’s online claim lookup (if available) to track status before calling.
- If you represent an estate or business, include documentation that proves your authority (letters of administration, corporate resolutions, etc.).
- If you receive a denial, read it carefully for appeal instructions and deadlines. Appeals often have short filing windows.
- When contacting the Division, note the name of the person you speak to, the date, and the details of the conversation.
- If a large amount is at stake or the claim involves a dispute (heirs, liens, probate issues), consult a Rhode Island attorney experienced in unclaimed property or probate early.
- Be cautious with third-party ‘finder’ services. Verify any service’s fee structure and check whether you can file directly with the state for free.