Disclaimer: This is general information only and not legal advice. For help with a specific claim, consult an attorney or contact the Utah State Treasurer’s Office.
Detailed answer — What typically happens after the 90‑day review period for an unclaimed property claim in Utah
When you file an unclaimed property claim in Utah, the State Treasurer’s Office reviews the submission, verifies ownership, and checks records with the reporting holder (the business or entity that turned the property over to the state). Utah follows the Unclaimed Property Act codified at Utah Code Title 67, Chapter 4a. For general law text, see the Utah Code Title 67, Chapter 4a (Unclaimed Property) at the Utah Legislature website: https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title67/Chapter4A/67-4a.html. You can also find claim filing and tracking resources at the Utah State Treasurer’s unclaimed property page: https://treasurer.utah.gov/unclaimed-property/.
What the 90‑day period usually is
In many cases the Treasurer allows a period (often described as about 90 days) for verification, notice to the holder, and for any challenges or information requests to be resolved. That period gives the Treasurer time to: (1) verify identity and ownership, (2) request additional documentation from you, and (3) contact the holder if the Treasurer needs confirmation or if the holder disputes the claim.
Possible outcomes after the 90‑day review
- Claim approved and payment issued. If the Treasurer verifies your identity and ownership and no holder disputes the claim, the Treasurer authorizes payment. Payment is typically issued by check or electronic transfer depending on the Treasurer’s procedures and the claimant’s choices.
- Treasurer requests more documentation. The Treasurer may extend the review by asking you to submit additional proof — for example, ID, account statements, titles, a death certificate, or an affidavit of heirship. You will usually receive instructions and a deadline to respond.
- Claim denied. The Treasurer may deny a claim if the supporting evidence is insufficient, the property is not payable under Utah law, or the claim conflicts with records from the holder. If denied, you should receive a written explanation and instructions on next steps.
- Dispute with the holder. If the reporting holder contests your claim (for example, claiming a different owner or that the funds were already paid), the Treasurer will follow dispute-resolution procedures. The Treasurer may hold the funds while the dispute is resolved.
Timing for payment
If the Treasurer approves your claim, payment timing varies. Simple claims with clear documentation can be paid within days to a few weeks after approval. Complex claims, claims involving estates, or claims with disputes will take longer — sometimes months — depending on required documentation and any appeals or holder disputes.
If your claim is denied or disputed
If a claim is denied or a holder objects, look for: (1) the Treasurer’s written explanation; (2) what evidence is missing; and (3) instructions for appeal or resubmission. You may be asked to provide further proof of ownership or legal authority (for example, letters testamentary, probate documents, or small‑estate affidavits). If you disagree with the Treasurer’s decision, you can ask about administrative review or other remedies through the Treasurer’s office. The Utah Administrative Procedure Act and specific provisions of the Unclaimed Property Act may govern appeals; contact the Treasurer for the exact administrative process and timelines.
Practical next steps you should expect
- Watch your email and the claim portal for requests from the Treasurer. Respond promptly.
- Prepare commonly requested documents: government ID, proof of prior address, account statements, titles, death certificates, and documents showing your relationship to the owner if you are an heir.
- If the claim is approved, confirm how you want to receive funds and how the Treasurer will deliver payment.
- If the claim is denied, read the denial carefully and follow the appeal or resubmission instructions immediately.
For specifics about filing, tracking, or the Treasurer’s policies, use the Utah State Treasurer’s unclaimed property pages: https://treasurer.utah.gov/unclaimed-property/.
Helpful hints
- Keep clear, legible copies of every document you upload or email to the Treasurer.
- Commonly requested documents include a government ID, proof of current and prior addresses, account statements, vehicle titles, stock certificates, death certificates, or probate documents.
- If filing on behalf of a deceased owner, bring documentation of your authority to act (letters of administration, small‑estate affidavit, or a certified copy of the will and death certificate).
- Use the Treasurer’s online claim tracker to check status instead of calling repeatedly; that keeps all status notes in one place.
- Beware of scams: the Treasurer’s office will not ask for bank account passwords. Confirm communications come from official treasurer.utah.gov addresses.
- If the holder disputes the claim, collect any communication you have with the holder; provide that to the Treasurer to help resolution.
- If you need legal advice about a denied claim or a complex estate matter, contact an attorney experienced in unclaimed property or probate in Utah.
Useful links: Utah Unclaimed Property (Utah State Treasurer): https://treasurer.utah.gov/unclaimed-property/ — Utah Code, Title 67, Chapter 4a (Unclaimed Property): https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title67/Chapter4A/67-4a.html.