After the 90-Day Waiting Period: What to Expect with Unclaimed Property in Massachusetts

Disclaimer: This article explains general Massachusetts unclaimed property procedures and is not legal advice. If you need legal help, contact an attorney licensed in Massachusetts.

Detailed Answer

When you file a valid claim for unclaimed property in Massachusetts, the Treasurer’s office reviews the claim and the supporting documents. Massachusetts law governing abandoned and unclaimed property is found in Chapter 200A of the Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L. ch. 200A), and the Treasurer’s unclaimed property program administers payments and disputes. The practical outcomes after the typical 90‑day review or waiting period fall into a few clear categories:

1. Claim approved and payment issued.

   If the Treasurer’s office is satisfied with the evidence you provided — identity documents, account statements, proof of ownership, affidavits, etc. — it will approve the claim and issue payment. Payment can be by check or by electronic method the program supports. You will receive notice that the claim was paid and the amount paid.

2. Additional documentation requested.

   The Treasurer may request more proof before approving payment. Common requests include notarized affidavits, copies of prior account statements, deeds, transfer records, or matching identification. If you get a request, respond promptly. Failing to provide needed documentation can delay or cause denial of the claim.

3. Claim denied (written explanation provided).

   If the Treasurer denies the claim, you should receive written notice with reasons. Common reasons include insufficient proof of ownership, inconsistent information, or prior payment of the same property. The notice will explain next steps and whether you can submit additional evidence or appeal.

4. Third‑party objection or competing claims.

   Sometimes a third party (for example, a co‑owner, estate representative, or holder) contests the claim. The Treasurer’s office will investigate competing claims. Investigation can extend the timeline beyond 90 days while ownership issues are resolved.

5. Setoffs, liens, or legal holds.

   If the claimant or property is subject to a state offset, tax lien, or court order, the Treasurer may hold or apply the funds accordingly. You will be notified if the Treasurer applies any offsets or holds.

Typical timeline notes:

• The “90‑day” period often refers to an expected review window or a statutory notice period for certain actions; actual processing can be shorter or longer depending on documentation and disputes.
• If the Treasurer asks for more information, the clock effectively pauses until you supply it.
• If you disagree with a denial, the statute and Treasurer’s administrative rules provide processes for appeal or judicial review—check M.G.L. ch. 200A and the Treasurer’s guidance for specifics.

Example (hypothetical)

Jane files a claim for a forgotten $1,200 savings account. She uploads a government ID and a bank statement showing the account balance. After 90 days the Treasurer approves the claim and mails Jane a check. If the Treasurer instead asked for a notarized affidavit to confirm Jane’s prior address, payment would wait until Jane submitted that affidavit.

Where to check status and official resources

• Massachusetts Treasurer — Unclaimed Property main page: https://www.mass.gov/unclaimed-property
• Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 200A (unclaimed/abandoned property): M.G.L. ch. 200A

Helpful Hints

• Keep copies of everything you submit. Save emails, claim numbers, and reference IDs.
• Respond quickly to requests for more documents. Faster responses speed payment.
• Typical documents that help: government photo ID, Social Security number (if requested), account statements, cancelled checks, deeds, beneficiary paperwork, and notarized affidavits when required.
• Use the Treasurer’s official portal and phone line for status checks — avoid third‑party services that charge fees to file a free claim.
• If a claim is denied, read the denial notice closely. It usually tells you what additional proof will be accepted and how to appeal.
• If you expect a competing claim (co‑owner, estate representative), consider documenting your ownership history early to reduce disputes.
• If you have questions about legal remedies (appeal or court filing), consult a Massachusetts attorney—this article is informational only and not legal advice.

For the most reliable, up‑to‑date details, check the Treasurer’s unclaimed property page and the Massachusetts statute at the links above.