When money or financial assets are left without the owner taking possession of it, it is termed ‘unclaimed money’. This money could be in the form of dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, unpaid wages, and more. This could occur as a result of many reasons. Maybe you got married, relocated, traveled out for a while, or just something else. Let us know more detail about ‘Unclaimed Money Georgia’.
Unclaimed Money Georgia
Fortunately, Georgia has put in measures to ensure you recover your money. When money or any other financial asset is left unclaimed, the holder is required to report it. The State then grants the holder permission to hold it temporarily for a while in case the owner comes to claim it. If it remains unclaimed after this period, the holder turns it over to the State, which keeps it until it is claimed.
How to Find Unclaimed Money in Georgia?
There are three ways you can search for your unclaimed money:
- The State Online Database. This database is run by the Georgia Department of Revenue. Initially, before States created online databases for unclaimed money, one would have to do a manual search from county to county. With the number of counties in Georgia, We’re sure you would agree with us that it would be such a herculean task. This database has made it so simple. All you need is to enter your name, city, and additional information such as your Social Security Number.
- Calling the State Agents. You can also find your unclaimed money by calling the State Agents if you’re interested. You could reach them at (855) 329-9863. You would also want to call them at a time they would be readily available. This would be during regular business hours, probably from 9 AM till 4 PM.
- Third-Party Search Sites: Since unclaimed money in the United States is public, there are third-party search engines that could help you find your unclaimed money. All you still need to do is simply enter your name and your city to narrow down the search.
After you have found your unclaimed money, what do you do next?
How to Claim Unclaimed Money in Georgia?
Very importantly, to file a claim for unclaimed money in Georgia, one is required to have some important documents like a driver’s license, and social security number. You should also be ready to provide any additional documents or records that may be needed
To claim your unclaimed money after you’ve done a name-based search, you have to file a claim and wait for it to be reviewed and either approved or denied. When you enter your full name or business name, the system returns a list of best matches. You have to search through it and find your full name, your last known location, and the holder’s name. You can then add your claim to a claims cart and check out.
Following this, you would be required to provide a relationship to the unclaimed money. You would also be required to provide some personal information like your current house address, social security number, and full name.
After this, the system sends your claim for review. An administrator proceeds to review the claim with the provided information. It is at this point that your claim will either be approved or rejected. With the correct information, the chances of it being rejected are very slim.
Claiming Money for Others or a Dead Relative in Georgia
It is very much possible to claim money on behalf of others as a third party. You can also claim a deceased relative’s unclaimed money. It pretty much requires the same process. As a relative or family member of a deceased person, you can claim the deceased unclaimed money by going through the process of searching, filing a claim, and going on to provide supporting documents. An attorney could also be hired to help with the process.
For others too, you can help them search for their unclaimed money. All you need is evidence that they have given you authority to claim their unclaimed money in Georgia.
How Long Does it Take to Get Back One’s Unclaimed Money in Georgia?
The time it takes to get one’s unclaimed money in Georgia varies. It depends on the number of claims being processed at a particular time and how correct the information you provided is. However, based on previous records, the average time it takes to get back one’s money is about 60 days. Remember, it could be less or even more. All you need to do is ensure you provide the correct information so that the process is fast.
What Happens to Unclaimed Money in Georgia Without Claims?
Unclaimed money remains unclaimed money in Georgia. If it were a piece of property, the law permits the Department of Revenue to sell such property. However, this is money, so it remains unclaimed as it is forever. Nothing is done to it.
Can I Claim Money From Another State?
Yes, you can. You simply have to follow the State’s process. The process, however, is almost similar to that of Georgia State. Use their database, file your claim and provide the required information.
