Detailed Answer — Step‑by‑Step: What to expect after the 90‑day period

This guide explains typical post–90‑day outcomes under South Carolina’s unclaimed property process and what you should do at each stage. The South Carolina Treasurer’s Office administers unclaimed property claims and reviews each submission. See the Treasurer’s unclaimed property information for claim procedures and forms: South Carolina Treasurer — Unclaimed Property.

1. Claim is approved and paid

   If the Treasurer’s office verifies your identity and documentation and finds you are the rightful owner, it will issue payment. Payment methods commonly include a paper check or electronic transfer when available. You will receive notification of approval and estimated timing. Expect processing time after approval—issuing payment can take a few days to a few weeks depending on the office workload and whether additional internal steps are needed.

2. Claim is incomplete or needs more documentation

   The office may place a claim on hold and request additional proof of ownership. Typical requests include government ID, proof of prior address, account statements, death certificate (for estates), letters testamentary, or corporate documents (for business claims). Respond promptly with certified or notarized copies if requested. If you fail to supply requested documents within the deadline the Treasurer sets, your claim can be denied.

3. Claim is denied

   The Treasurer’s office must provide reasons for denial. Common reasons include insufficient documentation, mismatched identity information, or a competing claim with stronger proof. If denied, the notice will often explain how to appeal or resubmit with better evidence. Keep copies of everything and ask for a written explanation if one is not provided.

4. Competing claims or third‑party issues

   If multiple parties claim the same property (for example, two people claim an account or a bank reports conflicting owner information), the office will investigate further. It may ask both parties for proof and will decide based on the strongest, verifiable documentation. That investigation extends timelines beyond the standard review period.

5. Discovery of an error or fraud hold

   If the Treasurer suspects fraud, identity theft, or suspicious activity, it may place an administrative hold and coordinate with other state or financial institutions. That process can take significantly longer than 90 days while the office resolves security concerns.

6. Claims against estates or businesses

   Claims that require probate documents, letters of administration, or corporate resolution typically take longer. The Treasurer will require certified legal documents and may work with the claimant’s attorney or the estate representative before issuing payment.

For the underlying legal framework that governs unclaimed property in South Carolina, refer to the state’s unclaimed property laws and related statutory provisions. The South Carolina Code contains the state’s rules and the Treasurer’s office handles administration: South Carolina Code — Title 27, Chapter 18 (Unclaimed Property).

Common timelines and practical expectations

• Initial review: 30–90 days after you file a claim (this is the routine review period).
• After 90 days: you will either see approval/payment, a request for more documents, or a denial/explanation.
• If additional investigation is required (competing claims, fraud reviews, probate), expect extra weeks to months depending on complexity.

What to do if your claim is delayed after 90 days

1. Check the account status online (Treasurer site) and review any messages the office posted about your claim.
2. Respond quickly to any requests for documentation. Use certified or notarized documents when asked.
3. If you get a denial, read the denial carefully. The notice should explain the reason and appeal options.
4. Contact the Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property division by phone or email for a status update. Keep a record of all communications.
5. Consider hiring an attorney if you face a complex dispute (competing claims, estate issues, corporate ownership disputes, or suspected fraud).

How to appeal or challenge a denial

If the Treasurer denies your claim, the notice should explain your appeal rights or the method to resubmit with additional evidence. Typical steps include:

• Request a written explanation of the denial.
• Gather stronger documentation: certified records, bank statements, corporate filings, probate documents, or notarized affidavits.
• Resubmit the claim with the new evidence or follow the formal appeal instructions in the denial letter.
• When the stakes are high or the facts are complex, consider consulting an attorney who handles unclaimed property or probate matters.

Helpful Hints

• Save copies of everything you submit. Photograph certified originals and keep digital backups.
• When supplying ID, make sure names and addresses match the name under which the property was reported.
• Provide context: explain how you are connected to the property (previous account holder, heir, authorized officer of a company).
• If you file as an estate representative, include certified letters testamentary or letters of administration with your claim.
• Use the Treasurer’s secure online claim portal (if available) — online submissions often move faster and allow status checks.
• If the claim involves a business, include formation documents, tax ID, and corporate resolutions showing authority to claim on behalf of the business.
• Expect the Treasurer to compare submitted documents to what the reporting holder (bank, business) reported to the state. Inconsistencies cause delays.
• If you suspect identity theft, notify the Treasurer’s office immediately and consider placing fraud alerts on your accounts.