Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Under Arizona law, unclaimed or abandoned property includes bank accounts, insurance proceeds, utility deposits, safe-deposit contents and more. The Arizona Unclaimed Property Program, managed by the State Treasurer’s Office, holds property after a specified dormancy period under Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) §44-307 (A.R.S. §44-307) and administers claims under A.R.S. §44-310 (A.R.S. §44-310) and §44-311 (A.R.S. §44-311).
Step 1: Identify Potential Assets
Compile a list of accounts and property in the decedent’s name. Common sources include:
- Banks, credit unions and brokerage firms
- Life insurance companies
- Utilities and security deposits
- Unpaid wages or tax refunds
- Safe-deposit boxes
Step 2: Search the Arizona Unclaimed Property Database
Visit the official search portal at the Arizona Treasurer’s Office: aztreasury.gov/unclaimed-property. Enter the decedent’s full name and possible variations. Save screenshots or print the search results.
Step 3: Gather Required Documentation
To prove entitlement, you generally need:
- Certified death certificate of the decedent
- Proof of your relationship (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate, beneficiary designation)
- Probate documents or heir-at-law affidavit if no probate estate exists
- Your government-issued photo ID
Step 4: Submit a Claim
Complete the online claim form or download a paper claim package from the Treasurer’s website. Follow the instructions carefully and attach all required documents. Claims submitted under A.R.S. §44-310 must include notarized signatures if using a paper form.
Step 5: Monitor and Receive Funds
After submission, the Treasurer’s Office reviews your claim. They may request additional information. Once approved, funds or property are sent by check or direct deposit. Processing typically takes 60–90 days.
Helpful Hints
- Search under all name variations, including maiden and misspellings.
- Keep detailed notes on dates and communications with the Treasurer’s Office.
- Check the database periodically—new property postings occur quarterly.
- If the estate is open in probate, notify the probate court of unclaimed assets.
- Consider consulting a probate attorney if property is complex or if multiple heirs contest claims.