Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.
Detailed Answer to Claiming Unclaimed Property in Rhode Island
Understanding Rhode Island’s Unclaimed Property Law
Rhode Island’s Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-1 et seq.) requires businesses and financial institutions to turn over abandoned assets to the state after specified dormancy periods. The Rhode Island Division of Taxation holds these assets until rightful owners or heirs claim them. Common dormancy periods include three years for checking and savings accounts and uncashed checks, and five years for contents of safe-deposit boxes (R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-4).
Step 1: Search for Unclaimed Property
Begin by searching Rhode Island’s database at tax.ri.gov/unclaimedproperty. You can also search the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) site at unclaimed.org to check multiple states.
Step 2: Establish Heirship and Gather Documentation
To claim on behalf of a deceased relative, heirs must prove their legal right to inherit. Typical documents include:
- Certified death certificate of the decedent
- Will or trust document, if available
- Letters of administration or letters testamentary issued by the probate court
- Affidavit of heirship (when no will exists)
- Proof of your identity (driver’s license or passport)
Step 3: File a Claim with the Rhode Island Division of Taxation
Complete the Unclaimed Property Claim Form (UP-10) available at tax.ri.gov/unclaimedproperty/forms/UP-10_form.pdf. Attach the required documents and submit online or by mail to the address listed on the form.
Step 4: Division Review and Issuance of Payment
Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-12 and § 6-36-13, the Division verifies your claim and documentation. Approved claims are paid by check or direct deposit. Processing times vary but often take 60–90 days.
Statutory References
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-1: Purpose and Scope
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-3: Duty to Report and Deliver Property
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-4: Dormancy Periods
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-12: Claims Process
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-13: Payment to Claimant
Helpful Hints
- Check multiple name variations (maiden names, initials).
- Keep copies of all submitted documents and forms.
- Follow up with the Division if you haven’t heard back in 90 days.
- Consult probate court records if you lack formal letters of administration.
- Regularly recheck the database; new properties are added quarterly.