How Heirs Locate and Claim Unclaimed Property of a Deceased Relative in Kentucky
Disclaimer: This article provides general information on Kentucky law. It does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific circumstances.
Detailed Answer
When someone dies and financial items—such as bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds or safe-deposit box contents—go unclaimed, Kentucky’s State Treasurer holds those assets under the Uniform Unclaimed Property Act (KRS Chapter 393). Heirs must perform three main steps to locate and claim these assets:
1. Identify Potential Unclaimed Assets
Start by gathering the decedent’s personal data: full legal name (including any aliases), Social Security number, last known address and date of birth. Search these details on the Kentucky State Treasury’s Unclaimed Property database at claimitky.gov. You can also conduct free nationwide searches via the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators.
2. Determine Heirship or Estate Authority
If the decedent left a will, the executor named in the will has priority to claim property. If the decedent died intestate (without a will), Kentucky law (KRS 394.020) dictates distribution to nearest relatives. To establish your status:
- File probate in the circuit court of the county where the decedent resided. See KRS Chapter 394 on intestate succession.
- Obtain letters of administration (if no executor) or letters testamentary (if there is an executor).
3. Submit a Claim to the Treasury
Once you confirm heirship or executor status, complete the claim packet from the Kentucky State Treasury. You must provide:
- A certified death certificate.
- Documentation proving heirship or authority (letters of administration or testamentary).
- Proof of identity for each claimant (photo ID, Social Security card).
- Any original documents related to the property (account statements, stock certificates, etc.).
Submit the completed form and all attachments by mail or electronically at claimitky.gov. The State Treasurer reviews your claim under KRS Chapter 393. Processing often takes 8–12 weeks, depending on complexity.
Helpful Hints
- Search under all known name variations (maiden names, nicknames).
- Keep copies of every document submitted and note submission dates.
- Contact the State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Division for status updates: 1-502-696-7378.
- Consider hiring a probate attorney if you encounter disputes among heirs.
- Review unclaimed property reports annually; new assets may surface later.