Short answer

After the 90-day waiting period, the Georgia unclaimed property administrator will either approve and pay your claim, ask for more documentation, or deny the claim. If approved, you should receive payment or instructions for collection. If denied or disputed, you will get instructions for appeal or next steps. Processing times can extend beyond 90 days for complex claims or when additional verification is needed.

Detailed answer — how the post‑90‑day process normally works in Georgia

1. Why there is a 90‑day waiting period

When you file a claim for unclaimed property with Georgia (administered through the state unclaimed property program), the agency uses an initial waiting period to verify the claim, give notice when appropriate, and allow the holder or other parties time to object or provide information. That 90‑day period is part of the administrative review process that protects rightful owners and prevents duplicate or fraudulent payments.

2. Typical outcomes once 90 days pass

• Claim approved and paid: If the documentation proves your ownership and there are no unresolved holder objections, Georgia will issue payment. Payment may be by check or electronic transfer, depending on the program’s method.
• Request for more information: The state may ask you to provide additional documents (IDs, account records, affidavits, proof of address, or proof of relationship if claiming for someone else). Until those are provided, payment is paused.
• Claim denied: If the evidence does not satisfy the state’s verification standards or the property was already paid to another party, the claim can be denied. The state should supply a reason and explain appeal options.
• Dispute raised by holder or third party: If the original holder of the property or another claimant objects, the state will pause payment and coordinate resolution. This may require additional documentation or an administrative hearing.

3. Timing and practical realities

Although 90 days is a common milestone, actual timelines vary. Straightforward claims with complete documents are often resolved soon after the 90‑day mark. Complex titles, estates, or claims involving multiple potential owners can take much longer—sometimes several months—while the state investigates.

4. What you will receive if your claim is approved

When a claim is approved, you will typically receive written notice and payment. The notice will explain the amount paid and any steps you must complete (for example, returning original documents or completing a form if payment is large). Keep all records of the claim and payment for your records.

5. If your claim is denied or delayed — your options

• Respond quickly to any requests for more documentation.
• If denied, request a written explanation. Follow the administrative appeal instructions provided by the agency. Georgia agencies generally provide an appeal or protest process—follow the directions in the denial notice.
• If a third party disputes your claim, gather clear proof of ownership (account numbers, account statements, wills, beneficiary designations, or letters of administration) and submit it to the state.
• Consider hiring an attorney experienced in Georgia unclaimed property or administrative appeals if disputes are complex or the amount is substantial.

6. Where to find Georgia’s unclaimed property rules and contact information

Georgia’s unclaimed property program provides claim filing instructions, required documents, and contact details on the state website. For state guidance and to file or check a claim, see the Georgia Department of Revenue Unclaimed Property page: https://dor.georgia.gov/unclaimed-property.

Georgia’s unclaimed property laws are part of the state code (Uniform Unclaimed Property Act provisions). For statutory language and legal procedures, consult the Official Code of Georgia Annotated sections on unclaimed property via the Georgia General Assembly site: https://www.legis.ga.gov (search for “unclaimed property” or “Title 44”).

Helpful Hints

• File a complete claim the first time: include government ID, proof of address, and original or certified copies of account statements, canceled checks, or policy numbers. Complete claims are processed faster.
• Keep copies of everything you send. Use trackable mail or electronic submission where available.
• If you’re claiming for a deceased person, be ready to provide a death certificate and proof of your authority (executor letters, small estate affidavit, or court order).
• Check the state’s portal regularly to track claim status and respond promptly to requests to avoid unnecessary delays beyond 90 days.
• If the holder objects, ask the state for the objection details. Often a direct piece of missing evidence resolves the dispute.
• If you need help interpreting a denial or preparing an appeal, consider consulting a Georgia attorney with experience in unclaimed property or administrative law.
• Remember possible tax considerations: recovering property may have tax implications—consult a tax advisor if the payment is large.