Detailed Answer
Short answer: After the 90‑day waiting period, the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) will either pay the approved claim or take additional steps if the claim needs more review. If the claim is denied, DOR will notify you and explain how to challenge that decision. The state may also delay payment while it verifies identity, resolves competing claims, or responds to legal holds.
This section explains the typical timeline and possible outcomes, using a simple hypothetical to make the process clear.
How the post‑90‑day process typically works
- Claim review completes: The 90‑day window often allows time for the DOR to complete initial checks and for any public notice/administrative processing. If the DOR has everything it needs and no disputes exist, it will move forward to pay the claim.
- Payment issued (if approved): For an approved claim, the DOR issues payment to the claimant. Payment method and time-to-pay can vary based on the type of property (cash, checks, securities) and any internal processing steps.
- Additional verification or delay: If the DOR needs more documentation (proof of identity, proof of ownership), the claim remains open and the agency will request the needed items. The 90 days does not force a payment if questions remain.
- Competing claims or legal holds: If more than one person or entity claims the same property, or if the property is tied up in probate, guardianship, a court order, tax levy, or other legal dispute, the DOR can delay payment while the matter is resolved.
- Denial and notice of rights: If the DOR denies the claim, you will receive written notice explaining the reason(s). That notice should include information about review or appeal procedures under Wisconsin administrative‑law rules.
Hypothetical example
Maria finds an entry showing a $1,200 unclaimed bank account in her name. She files a claim and provides her ID and account documents. After 90 days:
- If the DOR verifies the documents and finds no competing claims or legal restrictions, it mails Maria a check (or issues an electronic payment) and closes the file.
- If the DOR needs a notarized affidavit or additional proof of ownership, it sends Maria a request and holds the claim open until she supplies the documents. Payment waits until verification is complete.
- If someone else files a competing claim or a court notifies the DOR of a dispute, the DOR pauses payment until the competing claim or court requirement is resolved.
Where the law and agency rules apply
Wisconsin’s unclaimed property program and claim procedures are governed by the state’s unclaimed property laws and administered by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. See Wisconsin Statutes, chapter 177 for statutory authority on unclaimed property: Wis. Stat. ch. 177. If you receive an adverse decision, administrative appeal rights generally follow state administrative procedures (see: Wis. Stat. ch. 227).
For practical, up‑to‑date guidance and to check your claim status, use the Wisconsin DOR Unclaimed Property pages: Wisconsin Dept. of Revenue — Unclaimed Property.
Common reasons payment is delayed after 90 days
- Missing or insufficient documentation (ID, account documents, proof of name changes)
- Competing claim by another claimant
- Pending court order, probate, or guardianship that affects ownership
- Suspected fraud or identity questions requiring extra verification
- Administrative backlogs or additional verification for non‑cash property (e.g., securities)
What to expect in the denial or appeal process
If the DOR denies your claim, expect a written explanation. The notice will generally explain how to request review or appeal. Administrative appeals in Wisconsin follow the state administrative procedure rules; see Wis. Stat. ch. 227 for general appeal procedures and timelines: Wis. Stat. ch. 227. If you plan to contest a denial, gather all supporting documents and consider contacting an attorney for help preparing an appeal.
Helpful Hints
- Keep complete proof of identity and ownership (photo ID, bank statements, account numbers, beneficiary designations, divorce or name‑change documents).
- When you file a claim, keep copies of everything and note the DOR claim number and the date you submitted materials.
- Respond quickly to any DOR request for additional documentation. Prompt responses reduce delays beyond the 90‑day period.
- If payment is delayed, ask the DOR for a status update and the specific reason for the delay in writing.
- If someone else claims the property or a court is involved, be prepared for a longer process; consider legal counsel for complex disputes (probate, guardianship, large sums, or competing claims).
- Use official state resources: Wisconsin DOR’s unclaimed property pages for claim forms, instructions, and online status checks: https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/unclaimed.aspx.
- Remember: the state retains unclaimed property under Wis. Stat. ch. 177. If you believe the DOR acted incorrectly, administrative appeal rights exist under Wis. Stat. ch. 227.
Disclaimer: This article explains general information about Wisconsin unclaimed property procedures. It is educational only and not legal advice. For advice about a specific claim or legal dispute, consult an attorney or contact the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.