How Heirs Locate and Claim Unclaimed Property of a Deceased Relative in Maryland

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.

Understanding Maryland’s Unclaimed Property Program

In Maryland, unclaimed property includes dormant bank accounts, insurance proceeds, utility refunds, safe deposit contents and other intangible property left unclaimed for a certain period. The Maryland State Treasurer’s Office administers these funds under the Maryland Unclaimed Property Act (State Government Article, Title 17).

Step 1: Search the Maryland Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Database

Visit the official unclaimed property search portal at the Maryland State Treasurer’s website: unclaimedproperty.marylandtreasurer.gov. Enter the deceased’s name, city or last known address to see if any assets are listed. If you find property, note the ‘Property ID’ and the type of asset.

Step 2: Confirm Your Status as an Eligible Heir

Maryland law allows an heir, beneficiary or personal representative to claim property. If the decedent left a will, the named executor may claim. For intestate estates, Maryland’s intestacy statutes (Courts & Judicial Proceedings § 3-103) guide heirship. Gather key documents:

Certified death certificate
Copy of will or intestacy affidavit
Letters of administration or letters testamentary from the Orphans’ Court
Family tree or heirship affidavit identifying beneficiaries

Step 3: Complete and File the Claim Form

Download the claimant form from the Treasurer’s site at Claim Unclaimed Property. Provide:

Claimant’s name, address and relationship to the decedent
Decedent’s Social Security number (if known) and date of death
Property ID and original holder information

Step 4: Submit Supporting Documentation

Include certified copies of the documents listed in Step 2. If property exceeds $2,000, Maryland may require an affidavit of heirship in lieu of probate. Ensure all documents bear original signatures or certified seals.

Step 5: Follow Up and Receive Your Funds

After submission, the Treasurer’s Office reviews the claim (typically 60–90 days). They may request additional verification. Once approved, Maryland issues payment by check or electronic transfer.

When to Consult an Attorney

Consider seeking legal advice if:

Heirs dispute entitlement or shares
The estate involves complex assets (e.g., mineral rights, safe deposits)
Multiple states hold unclaimed property

Helpful Hints

Start with the Maryland Treasurer’s unclaimed property search before checking other states.
Organize all estate documents in one folder for easy reference.
Keep certified copies; return originals after the claim process.
Monitor email and mail for requests from the Treasurer’s Office.
If you hit a roadblock, contact the Unclaimed Property Division at (800) 782-7383.
Check every few months; new properties are reported annually.
Keep records of all submissions and tracking numbers.