Detailed answer — the post-waiting-period process explained

This explains, in plain language, what typically happens in Vermont once the initial 90-day waiting period for an unclaimed property claim ends. It assumes you already filed a complete claim with the Vermont Office of the State Treasurer or responded to a request for information. This is educational material only and is not legal advice.

1. Claim review and verification (what the Treasurer does)

After you file a claim, the Office of the State Treasurer will review the paperwork and supporting documents you submitted. The office will verify your identity and your right to the property. They often confirm account details with the holder (the bank, business, or other custodian that reported the property) and check for any conflicting claims.

2. The role of the 90-day waiting period

The 90-day waiting period commonly functions as a window for the Treasurer and the original holder to complete verification steps and for third parties to raise objections if there are competing claims. If the claim is complete and unopposed, the Treasurer will move forward once the period closes. If the Treasurer needs more proof or if the holder disputes the claim, the process may take longer.

3. Typical outcomes after 90 days

• Claim approved and paid: If the Treasurer completes verification with no unresolved issues, they issue payment to the claimant. Payment may be by check or electronic transfer depending on the office’s procedures.
• Additional documentation requested: The Treasurer may ask you for more proof (e.g., a copy of a government ID, account statements, a death certificate for an estate claim, power of attorney). If requested, provide those documents promptly to avoid further delay.
• Claim disputed by holder: If the reported holder contests your right to the property or provides conflicting information, the Treasurer may pause payment while investigating or mediating the dispute.
• Claim denied or closed: If the Treasurer determines the claim lacks merit or documentation, they may deny it and provide instructions for appeal or resubmission with corrected materials.

4. Timing — how long until you actually receive the funds?

There is no single guaranteed timeline. If everything is in order, payment often follows soon after the 90-day window closes. If verification, holder responses, or additional documentation is required, the process can take longer — sometimes weeks to a few months. For a status update, contact the Vermont Office of the State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property unit directly (see links below).

5. Interest, fees, and offsets

States vary on interest and fee rules for returned unclaimed property. Vermont’s procedures and any applicable adjustments are administered by the Treasurer. Check the Treasurer’s program pages for current policies and for any statutory references. Official statute resources are available through the Vermont Legislature website.

6. If you disagree with a decision

If a claim is denied or the Treasurer relies on facts you dispute, the office should explain how to appeal or request reconsideration. You can typically resubmit evidence or use any administrative appeal process the Treasurer provides. For high-value or legally complex disputes you may consider consulting an attorney who handles unclaimed property or administrative law matters.

7. If you never filed a claim

If you discover property reported to Vermont but you did not file a claim, follow the Treasurer’s instructions to submit a claim. The office will then begin its review and the same verification steps apply.

For official guidance and program rules, start with the Vermont Office of the State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property page: https://www.vermonttreasurer.gov/unclaimed-property. For statutory text and to confirm legal requirements, consult the Vermont statutes at: https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes.

Helpful hints — practical steps to speed resolution

• File a complete claim. Include clear copies of ID, proof of address, account statements, and any documents that show your right to the property (e.g., bank statements, stock certificates, trust or probate documents).
• Respond quickly to requests. If the Treasurer asks for additional documents, send them promptly and use tracked delivery if you mail originals.
• Keep records. Save copies of everything you submit and note dates you filed claims or sent documents.
• Watch communications from the Treasurer and from the reported holder. Check spam folders for emails from the Treasurer.
• Check claim status online. The Treasurer’s site usually provides a way to look up and track claims.
• If the holder disputes the claim, ask the Treasurer what evidence will help resolve the dispute and whether mediation or additional verification is available.
• If the amount is large or the facts are complicated (multiple heirs, estate issues, or competing claims), consider consulting an attorney experienced in unclaimed property or probate matters.