Detailed answer — how Maine handles claims after the 90‑day wait

When you submit an unclaimed property claim in Maine, the state typically reviews the claim, verifies documentation, and may publish or hold the claim for a period so other interested parties (including the recorded owner) can respond. The commonly referenced 90‑day period is often a routine administrative window used to complete verifications, allow any notices to be processed, or let other claimants or the apparent owner come forward.

After that 90‑day period ends, one of the following generally occurs:

• Claim approved and payment issued: If Maine’s unclaimed property office verifies your identity and ownership/supporting documents and finds no competing claim, it will authorize payment. Payment may be issued by check or by electronic means, depending on the state’s process and what you requested.
• Additional documentation requested: The office may ask for more proof (ID, account statements, letters of administration, notarized affidavits, power of attorney, court documents). You will have an opportunity to provide those documents before final action.
• Claim denied or returned: If the documentation is insufficient, inconsistent, or if another party has a superior claim, the state can deny or close the claim. The office typically explains the reason and how to appeal or resubmit.
• Competing claims or disputes: If another claimant or an apparent owner files an objection, the state may pause payment and investigate. In some cases the state asks claimants to resolve disputes among themselves or refers complex disputes for legal resolution.
• Administrative or fraud review: If the file triggers a fraud review or requires coordination with an out‑of‑state holder, processing can take longer than 90 days.

How long payment takes after approval varies. Some claims clear and pay within days of approval; others can take several weeks if checks must be generated, multiple approvals are required, or if the state mails certified checks.

For official information about Maine’s unclaimed property program and how to file or check a claim, consult the Maine Treasurer’s office pages and the Maine statutes on property. See the Maine government unclaimed property resources and the Maine Legislature statutes for background: https://www.maine.gov/treasurer and https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/

Practical timeline — what to expect, step by step

1. Submission: You file the claim and upload or mail required documents.
2. Initial review (0–90 days): The state verifies identity and entitlement, contacts holders if needed, and sends notices if required.
3. Post‑90 days: If no problems, claim is approved and payment arranged. If issues exist, the state requests more info, issues a denial, or opens an investigation.
4. Payment or closure: Once approved you receive payment; if denied, the state explains appeal or resubmission steps.

Common reasons a claim is delayed beyond 90 days

• Insufficient or inconsistent documentation.
• Multiple claimants with competing claims.
• Need to verify account history with a financial institution or business holder.
• Administrative backlog or additional internal reviews.
• Possible fraud indicators requiring investigation.

What you should do while waiting

• Check your claim status online or by phone with the Maine Treasurer’s unclaimed property office. Keep the claim number handy.
• Respond quickly to any request for additional documentation.
• Keep copies of everything you submit and a record of calls, emails, and dates.
• If someone else disputes the claim, gather proof of your priority or ownership (titles, account statements, correspondence).

When to consider legal help

Most routine unclaimed property claims resolve without a lawyer. Consider talking with an attorney if:

• You face a competing claimant and the amount involved is substantial.
• The state denies your claim and you need to appeal or file a legal action.
• There are complex estate issues (multiple heirs, probate matters, or unclear title).

Helpful hints

• Use the official state unclaimed property portal or the Maine Treasurer’s office for searches and filings to avoid scams.
• Submit clear, legible copies of IDs and proof of ownership. Include account numbers and original correspondence where possible.
• Keep contact information current so the state can reach you about follow‑up questions.
• If you represent an estate, include certified probate documents or letters testamentary to show authority to claim.
• Don’t pay fees to third‑party “finders” before you try the state’s free search and claim process.