Detailed Answer
Disclaimer: This is general information and not legal advice. For advice about a specific case, consult a licensed attorney or contact the Wyoming State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property office.
How the 90‑day waiting period fits into an unclaimed property claim
In Wyoming, unclaimed property claims are handled by the State Treasurer. The 90‑day waiting period commonly referenced in unclaimed property procedures is a review/holding interval the treasurer’s office uses after a claim is filed or after the state gives public notice. During this time the office verifies the claim, checks the documentation, and gives interested parties time to object or supply additional information.
The Wyoming Unclaimed Property Act governs how property is reported and returned. For the statutory framework, see the Wyoming Unclaimed Property Act (W.S. § 34‑24‑101 et seq.) and the State Treasurer’s unclaimed property resources: W.S. § 34‑24 (Title 34) and Wyoming State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property.
What typically happens after the 90‑day waiting period ends
- Final verification: The treasurer’s staff completes verification of the claimant’s identity, ownership documents, and any supporting evidence (IDs, account records, affidavits). If anything is missing, they will request it.
- Resolution of competing claims or objections: If another party filed a competing claim or the holder (company that reported the property) raises an objection, the treasurer will evaluate those disputes. The office may extend review, ask for more documentation, or refer the issue to the Attorney General or a court if statutory resolution is required.
- Approval or denial: If the treasurer finds the claim valid and there are no outstanding objections, the claim is approved. If the evidence is insufficient or the claim conflicts with another lawful claim, the treasurer may deny the claim and explain why.
- Payment or transfer: For approved monetary claims, the treasurer’s office issues payment (commonly by check or electronic transfer). For non‑monetary property, the office follows procedures to release the property or arrange return. Payment timing varies depending on verification steps and internal processing.
- Notification: The treasurer sends written notice of approval and payment details or a written denial with instructions for next steps (appeal or resubmission with more documentation).
If your claim is approved — what to expect
- You will receive payment or property after the treasurer completes identity checks and clears any objections.
- Payment delivery may take days to several weeks after approval depending on payment method and internal processing.
- Keep copies of all documents and the treasurer’s approval notice for your records and for tax reporting. The treasurer’s office can explain whether any tax reporting (e.g., 1099) applies.
If your claim is denied — next steps
If the treasurer denies a claim, the denial letter should say why and explain how to contest the decision or provide additional evidence. Common steps after denial include:
- Submit missing documentation or corrected affidavits requested by the treasurer.
- Ask the treasurer for a written statement of the reason for denial and the process and deadline for appeal or reconsideration.
- If the dispute involves a competing claimant or the former holder, you may need to consult an attorney to evaluate options including administrative appeal or filing a civil action.
Timing — how long until you see funds or property
There is no single fixed time. After the 90‑day waiting interval ends, an uncomplicated, well‑documented claim may be paid within days or a few weeks. Complicated claims with competing parties, missing documents, or legal questions can take months. If you need an estimate for your specific claim, contact the Wyoming State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property office directly: treasurer.wyo.gov/unclaimed-property.
Appeals and disputes
The Wyoming statutes allow procedural remedies when disputes arise over unclaimed property. If the treasurer denies your claim or a competing claim exists, you should:
- Follow the appeal instructions in the treasurer’s denial notice.
- Keep all communications and evidence in writing.
- Consider seeking legal advice if the value is significant or the dispute is complex.
Refer to the Wyoming Unclaimed Property Act for statutory procedures: W.S. § 34‑24‑101 et seq.
Helpful Hints
- Prepare documents before filing: government IDs, original account statements, account numbers, letters from the holder, and any death certificates or probate documents if claiming for a decedent.
- Submit clear, notarized affidavits when the treasurer requests them. Missing notarizations often delay claims.
- Keep copies. Save all emails, upload receipts, and written correspondence with the treasurer’s office and with the company that reported the property.
- Watch for competing claims. If someone else files a claim, respond quickly with proof of your ownership.
- Use the State Treasurer’s online resources to track a claim and learn expected timelines: treasurer.wyo.gov/unclaimed-property.
- If the claim involves a decedent’s estate, check whether probate or a small estate affidavit is required to transfer property legally.