Every year, millions of dollars in unclaimed property accumulate in Kansas, awaiting rightful owners to claim their assets.
As of December 19, 2024, the Kansas State Treasurer’s Office reported approximately $616 million in unclaimed property, emphasizing the importance for residents to check if they are owed any funds.
Understanding Unclaimed Property in Kansas
Unclaimed property refers to various financial assets that have been abandoned or forgotten by their owners. Common examples include:
- Inactive bank accounts
- Uncashed checks (payroll, dividends, refunds)
- Stock shares and bonds
- Insurance proceeds and benefits
- Wages and utility deposits
- Mineral royalties
- Safe deposit box contents
When these assets remain unclaimed for a specified period, businesses and government entities are required to report and transfer them to the state’s unclaimed property division, where they are held indefinitely until the rightful owner claims them.
How to Search for Unclaimed Property
The Kansas State Treasurer’s Office provides a free and easy-to-use online database where individuals can check for unclaimed property. To search:
- Visit the official Kansas State Treasurer’s website
- Enter your name or business name
- Follow on-screen instructions to review any listed unclaimed assets
- Check regularly, as new properties are added periodically
Claiming Your Unclaimed Property
If you discover unclaimed property under your name, follow these simple steps to claim it:
- Provide proof of identity (driver’s license, passport, or government ID)
- Submit documentation linking you to the unclaimed asset (such as old bank statements, pay stubs, or insurance records)
- Complete the online claim form and follow instructions for submission
- Wait for processing – once verified, your claim will be approved and funds returned to you
Recent Success Stories
Many Kansas residents, businesses, and organizations have benefited from the state’s unclaimed property program. Some recent cases include:
- A Northeast Kansas school district received $41,000 from unclaimed property funds
- Thousands of individuals have reclaimed forgotten bank accounts, wages, and refunds
- Safe deposit box items, including jewelry and collectibles, have been returned to rightful owners
Asset Type | Description | Dormancy Period | Reporting Entity | Claim Process |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bank Accounts | Savings and checking accounts | 5 years | Banks | Proof of identity |
Uncashed Checks | Payroll, dividends, refunds | 5 years | Businesses | Proof of ownership |
Insurance Proceeds | Matured life insurance policies | 3 years | Insurance firms | Policy documentation |
Safe Deposit Boxes | Contents of unclaimed safe deposit boxes | 5 years | Banks | Inventory verification |
With over $600 million in unclaimed property, Kansas residents must take a moment to search for any assets that may rightfully belong to them.
The process is simple, free, and could lead to a financial windfall. Check the Kansas State Treasurer’s database today and reclaim what’s yours!
FAQs
What is unclaimed property?
Unclaimed property includes financial assets that have been abandoned or forgotten, such as inactive bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, and stock shares.
How can I search for unclaimed property in Kansas?
You can search by visiting the Kansas State Treasurer’s official website, entering your name or business name, and reviewing any matching results.
Is there a fee to claim my unclaimed property?
No! The Kansas State Treasurer’s Office does not charge fees for reclaiming unclaimed property. Be cautious of third-party services that ask for payment.