Detailed Answer
When a relative dies, any unclaimed property they left behind—such as forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks or life insurance proceeds—may end up with the Connecticut Unclaimed Property Division. Heirs can recover these assets by following a straightforward four-step process rooted in Connecticut law (Chapter 32A of the Connecticut General Statutes).
Step 1: Search the Connecticut Unclaimed Property Database
Visit the official site at findctmoney.com. Enter the decedent’s name (and any known variations). The database draws from reports required under Conn. Gen. Stat. §3-65 (Statute §3-65) and shows property holders who have turned over abandoned assets to the state.
Step 2: Review and Verify Reported Property
Once you locate potential assets, click each listing to review details such as the type of property, last known holder and reported value. Confirm that the decedent’s identifying information (Social Security number, date of birth) and last known address match your records.
Step 3: Prepare and Submit Your Claim
You can file claims online or by mail. For online claims, click “Claim It” and follow the prompts. For paper claims, download the PDF claim form from the site and mail it to:
Connecticut State Treasurer’s OfficeUnclaimed Property Division
North Building, 3rd Floor
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
Required documentation typically includes:
- Certified copy of the decedent’s death certificate
- Proof of heirship (Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration from probate court; see Conn. Gen. Stat. §45a-362 for appointment of fiduciary)
- Copy of your government-issued photo ID
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
Under Conn. Gen. Stat. §3-67a (Statute §3-67a), the Treasurer pays unclaimed property to rightful owners or their legal representatives.
Step 4: Follow Up and Receive Payment
After submitting your claim, retain copies of all documents. The Unclaimed Property Division usually processes claims within 6–8 weeks. You can check status online. Once approved, the state issues payment via check or direct deposit.
Statutory Authority
- Report of abandonment: Conn. Gen. Stat. §3-65 (link).
- Notice to owners: Conn. Gen. Stat. §3-67 (link).
- Payment to legal representative: Conn. Gen. Stat. §3-67a (link).
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.
Helpful Hints
- Use exact name spellings and common nicknames when searching.
- Combine maiden and married names to catch all listings.
- Keep clear copies of all probate and identity documents.
- Check the database annually; heirs may discover new assets over time.
- If multiple heirs exist, consider a probate court order dividing recovery rights.