Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Massachusetts holds unclaimed property under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 200A. You can access and review information about your unclaimed assets through the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators’ portal at nccash.com, which aggregates data from participating states, including Massachusetts.
Step 1: Set Up an nccash.com Account
- Navigate to nccash.com.
- Click “Register” and enter your name, email address, and a secure password.
- Confirm your email via the link sent to your inbox.
Step 2: Verify Your Identity
- Log in and go to “My Profile” to complete identity verification.
- Provide your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Supply a valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license) and proof of address.
Step 3: Search for Massachusetts Unclaimed Property
- From the dashboard, select “Search by State” and choose “Massachusetts.”
- Enter your name or business name as it may appear on records.
- Filter results by date or property type (e.g., bank accounts, securities).
Step 4: Review Account Details
- Click each result to view the reported property value and holder.
- Note the date property became reportable. Under M.G.L. c. 200A § 3, property with three years of dormancy is subject to escheat.
- Download any available PDF records or transaction statements.
Step 5: Gather Required Documentation
- Prepare proof of identity: SSN, ID, and proof of current address.
- Collect proof of entitlement: wills, account statements, or corporate documents.
- If claiming as a successor or heir, include a death certificate and letters testamentary.
Step 6: Submit a Claim
- On nccash.com, select “File a Claim” next to the property listing.
- Upload your documentation in the specified formats (PDF, JPEG).
- Review and sign the claim form electronically.
- Submit the claim. You’ll receive a confirmation number by email.
- The Massachusetts Unclaimed Property Division will verify your claim. For status updates, visit the Massachusetts Unclaimed Property Office.
Helpful Hints
- Keep copies of all documents and confirmation emails.
- Use the exact name variation that appears on official records.
- Check Massachusetts’ search tool directly at mass.gov for any listings not yet in the national database.
- Expect processing times of 8–12 weeks under normal workloads.
- Contact the Unclaimed Property Office at 1-888-344-2946 for questions specific to Massachusetts law.