Detailed answer — how Florida processes claims after the 90‑day period

Florida handles unclaimed property under Chapter 717 of the Florida Statutes. The state’s Division of Unclaimed Property (within the Department of Financial Services/Chief Financial Officer) receives claims, verifies ownership, and coordinates with holders (banks, businesses, insurance companies, etc.). For many claim-related steps the Division or a holder may observe a 90‑day response or verification window. What happens after that 90‑day window depends on whether there were objections, requests for more documentation, or no contest at all.

1. If no one disputes the claim or requests more information

If, during the 90‑day period, no holder or other party contests the claim and the Division has the documentation it needs, the Division will typically approve the claim and issue payment. That payment may be a direct check or electronic payment to the claimant. You will receive a claim approval notice and payment instructions or confirmation. The Division’s web portal and the Florida unclaimed property search site (FTreasureHunt) let you track status and see when payment is issued.

2. If the Division or a holder requests additional documentation

The Division may ask you for more proof of identity or ownership (copy of ID, account statements, letters of testamentary or small estate forms, assignments, etc.). If you supply the requested documents promptly, the Division will continue its review. If you do not respond, the claim may be delayed or denied. Always keep copies of what you submit.

3. If a holder objects or a third party disputes ownership

If a holder or third party files a valid dispute within the allowed period, the Division will typically hold payment and open an investigation. A dispute can stop the automatic issuance of funds. You and the disputing party will get notices explaining the grounds for the dispute and any evidence submitted by each side. The Division attempts to resolve factual disputes; unresolved disputes can lead to administrative hearings or litigation under Florida law.

4. If the claim is denied after the 90‑day process

When the Division denies a claim, you should receive a written denial stating the reason (insufficient documentation, conflicting records, identification issues, proof of ownership lacking, etc.). You generally can respond with additional evidence or request an administrative review. Administrative appeals in Florida follow procedures under the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 120, Fla. Stat.) if you need a hearing.

5. Timing after the 90 days — when you can expect money

There is no single fixed number of days for final payment after the 90‑day verification period because timelines vary with complexity. If there are no disputes and documentation is sufficient, many straightforward claims are paid within a few weeks after approval. If disputes or additional verification are required, resolution can take months. Keep checking your claim status on the Division’s portal and the state search site.

6. Appeals, hearings, and next steps

If your claim is denied or a holder contests it, you can:

• Provide new or corrected documentation to the Division.
• Request an administrative hearing under Florida’s administrative procedure rules (Chapter 120, Fla. Stat.).
• Consider consulting a lawyer experienced in unclaimed property or probate matters if the claim involves estate or heirship disputes.

Relevant Florida law and official resources

Florida’s unclaimed property law is in Chapter 717 of the Florida Statutes. The Division of Unclaimed Property publishes claim instructions and status tools on the state websites linked below:

• Florida Statutes — Chapter 717 (Unclaimed Property): https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/chapter?chapter=717
• Florida Administrative Procedure (appeals/hearings): https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/chapter?chapter=120
• Florida Department of Financial Services — Division of Unclaimed Property: https://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/UnclaimedProperty
• Search and check claim status (FTreasureHunt): https://www.fltreasurehunt.gov

Helpful hints

• Prepare documentation before you file: government photo ID, Social Security number, proof of address, account statements, policy numbers, or transaction records that link you to the property.
• Keep copies of all documents and correspondence. Note dates you submitted paperwork and any responses.
• Monitor your claim online at FTreasureHunt and through the Division’s claim portal.
• Respond quickly to any Division request. Delays in supplying documents commonly cause claim denials or long waits.
• If a holder disputes your claim, ask for the reason in writing and for any evidence they submitted. That helps you respond effectively.
• If the claim involves an estate, guardianship, or complex title issues, consider getting legal help early. Probate or assignment issues often prolong resolution.
• If the Division denies your claim, ask about administrative appeal rights and deadlines. Chapter 120 outlines Florida’s administrative hearing process.