Recovering Unclaimed Property in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding Unclaimed Property

In Florida, unclaimed property refers to any financial asset that has been abandoned by its owner for a certain period. This can include bank accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, insurance policies, and more. The state holds these assets until the rightful owner or heir comes forward to claim them. Understanding the types of unclaimed properties and the process to recover them can help you reclaim what is rightfully yours.

Each year, millions of dollars in unclaimed property are reported to the Florida Department of Financial Services. It's crucial to check if you or your family are owed any of these assets, as they can provide unexpected financial relief. The process is made relatively simple by the state to ensure that citizens can easily reclaim their funds.

How to Search for Unclaimed Property

At Denny Borges, P.A., we simplify the entire process for you. Instead of trying to navigate the system alone or risking mistakes by claiming the wrong file, we recommend that you contact our office first. Our experienced team will verify if property is owed to you, guide you through the required documentation, and handle the claim from start to finish — ensuring nothing is missed and your rights are fully protected.

If you believe there may be unclaimed funds in your name, or if you're not sure where to begin, don’t search alone — let our team do it for you.
📞 Call us today at 1-888-815-7782

Tips for an Effective Search

When searching for unclaimed property, make sure to try different variations of your name. For example, include any maiden names or prior addresses to broaden your search results. Additionally, check with us periodically as new properties are added to the database regularly.

The Claim Process

After identifying potential unclaimed property, the next step is to initiate a claim. You'll need to provide documentation to prove ownership or entitlement. This typically includes a government-issued ID and documents that link you to the property, such as past utility bills or bank statements.

The claim process involves submitting different documents. The form requires details about the property and the claimant. After submission, the department will review your claim and may request additional documentation if needed.

Expected Timeline and Follow-Up

The timeline for claim processing can vary based on several factors, such as the complexity of the claim and the volume of claims being processed at that time. Generally, it takes several weeks to a few months for claims to be processed and approved. It's advisable to follow up periodically on the status of your claim through the online portal.

What Happens After Approval

Once your claim is approved, you will receive your funds through a check or electronic transfer, depending on the amount and your preference. It's essential to ensure all your contact information is up-to-date so that there are no delays in receiving your property.

Having successfully reclaimed your property, it's a good practice to keep a record of all related correspondence and documents. This will be helpful if there are any future queries or if you need to reclaim additional properties in the future.

Preventing Future Unclaimed Property

To prevent future instances of unclaimed property, regularly update your contact information with financial institutions. Keep track of all financial accounts and maintain records of any transactions. Proactively managing your finances can help avoid any assets becoming unclaimed.

In summary, reclaiming unclaimed property in Florida can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps. By conducting regular searches and maintaining proper documentation, you can ensure that any forgotten assets are recovered swiftly.