Office of Unclaimed Funds
Search for Your Unclaimed Property
New York has $18.4 billion waiting to be claimed. Search now — it's free.
Property becomes unclaimed in New York after sitting dormant for 3 years without owner contact. At that point, the holding institution — typically a bank, employer, or insurance company — is required to turn the property over to the state. New York currently holds $18.4 billion in unclaimed property waiting to be returned to its rightful owners. Claims are free to file and there is no deadline — the state holds the property indefinitely. Once a claim is submitted, processing typically takes 120 days. Online filing is available through the official portal.
Dormancy Period Details
Most property 3 years; utility deposits 2 years; wages 3 years.
Documentation Required to Claim
Proof of identity, proof of address, and relationship to owner.
Common Property Types
Bank accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, gift certificates, insurance.
How do I search for unclaimed property in New York?
Search for free through the official Office of Unclaimed Funds portal at the New York State Comptroller. You can search by your name, a business name, or a deceased relative's name. If property is found, you can file a claim directly through the portal — no fee required.
What types of property can be unclaimed in New York?
Common types of unclaimed property in New York include: Bank accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, gift certificates, insurance.. Any asset that goes unclaimed for 3 years is turned over to the state.
How long does it take to claim unclaimed property in New York?
New York typically processes unclaimed property claims within 120 days of receiving all required documentation. Filing online is the fastest method. Complex claims involving estates or business entities may require additional review time.
What documents do I need to claim property in New York?
Proof of identity, proof of address, and relationship to owner.
Is there a deadline to claim unclaimed property in New York?
No. New York holds unclaimed property indefinitely — there is no deadline to file a claim. You or your heirs can claim property at any time, regardless of how long it has been held by the state. Claims are always free to file.
What is the dormancy period for unclaimed property in New York?
The dormancy period in New York is 3 years. This means that if a financial asset goes 3 years without any owner-initiated activity or contact, the holding company is legally required to report and transfer it to the state. Most property 3 years; utility deposits 2 years; wages 3 years.
Can I search for unclaimed property belonging to a deceased relative in New York?
Yes. Heirs, executors, and legal representatives can search for and claim unclaimed property on behalf of deceased individuals in New York. You will need to provide documentation proving your legal right to the property, such as a death certificate, will, or letters of administration from the estate.
Official Claim Portal
New York State Comptroller
Last verified: 2026-03-31 · DataTactic links directly to official state portals. Claims are processed by state government agencies, not DataTactic.