Short answer

After Montana’s 90‑day review or waiting period, the unclaimed property office will move forward based on its claim review: it will either approve and pay an eligible claim, request more information, deny the claim with a reason, or place the claim on hold while it resolves a dispute. The exact next step depends on the type of property, whether additional verification is needed, and whether any third party (such as the reported holder) contests the claim.

Detailed answer — how the post‑90‑day process typically works in Montana

Montana administers unclaimed property under state law and through a state office that processes owner claims. The 90‑day period commonly refers to a statutory or administrative review window during which the state verifies the claim, notifies interested parties, and allows time for holders or other claimants to respond. What follows depends on the findings of that review.

1. Claims that are complete and verified: approval and payment

If the Unclaimed Property office determines the claimant provided sufficient proof of identity and ownership, and no lawful objection exists, the office will approve the claim. Approval normally leads to payment.

• Payment method: approved claims are usually paid by check or electronic payment (if the office supports ACH). Expect additional processing time (often several weeks) after approval while the office issues payment.
• Required documentation: common items needed before payment are government ID, Social Security number or taxpayer ID, and proof linking the claimant to the property (account statements, stock certificates, wills, or other records).

2. Claims needing more verification: requests for additional documents

If reviewers find gaps or inconsistent information, they will typically ask the claimant for more documentation. This pauses final action until the claimant submits what is requested. Common requests include notarized copies of ID, original account statements, or affidavits of ownership.

3. Denials and written reasons

If the claim lacks required proof or is legally deficient, the office will deny it and provide a reason. Denials are often accompanied by instructions on how to correct the problem or how to appeal the decision under Montana’s administrative procedures.

4. Claims placed on hold while disputes or holder objections are resolved

If the reported holder (the business that turned the property in) or another party disputes ownership, the claim can be put on hold while the unclaimed property office investigates. Resolution can require documentation from the holder, the claimant, or third parties.

5. Recoveries, corrections, and rescission

In rare cases, if the office later discovers an error or fraud, it may reverse payment, recover funds, or pursue other administrative remedies. That is why the office verifies identity and ownership carefully before releasing substantial amounts.

6. Special types of property

Some property types follow special procedures. For example, securities, safe‑deposit contents, or property involving probate may require extra steps (transfer of title, court documents, or coordination with custodians) before payment can occur.

Where to find the controlling Montana law

Montana’s unclaimed property rules and claimant procedures are set out in state law and in administrative guidance. You can read the Montana Code and related administrative materials or contact the office that manages unclaimed property for Montana:

• Montana Code Annotated – Montana Legislature (search the code for Unclaimed Property provisions): https://leg.mt.gov/bills/mca/
• Montana Unclaimed Property program (state office information and online claim portal): https://treasurer.mt.gov/Programs/Unclaimed-Property (state treasurer or other administering agency pages)

Common timelines after the 90‑day period

Timelines vary, but expect the following ballpark steps after 90 days:

• Approval + payment issued: 2–8 weeks (varies with office workload and payment method).
• Requests for additional info: typically a 30‑ to 90‑day window to produce documents; longer if complex records are required.
• Dispute resolution: could take several months if the holder contests the claim or if complicated ownership issues exist.

Helpful hints — make the post‑90‑day process go more smoothly

• Gather documentation before you file: government ID, Social Security number or tax ID, account statements, canceled checks, 1099s, contracts, or correspondence that show ownership.
• Respond quickly to requests: if the office asks for more documents, supply them as soon as possible to avoid delays.
• Use the official state portal or office: do not pay a finder or third‑party service to file for you (Montana provides free claim filing through the state site).
• Track your claim: save claim numbers, confirmation emails, and any correspondence. Most state offices let you check claim status online or by phone.
• Beware of tax consequences: some unclaimed property payments may be taxable income; keep records and consult a tax advisor if needed.
• If denied, read the denial carefully: the notice will explain how to correct deficiencies or how to appeal under Montana administrative procedure rules.
• For complex assets, get appropriate help: securities, real property interests, or safe‑deposit contents may require specialized documentation or a lawyer’s help to clear title.