From the list, users also can access information on the nature of the property and who turned it in to Treasury. But by providing Internet access to our database, we are making it easy for owners all over the world to find us. There are owners with last known addresses in many states and some foreign countries. Owners who find their name, or the names of family members or friends, on the list can conveniently download an Unclaimed Property Claim Form from the Web site. The person claiming the property then completes the form and returns it to Treasury's Bureau of Unclaimed Property for final approval and payout.
Individuals can submit claim forms as an heir or by power of attorney.
So if people don't find the name they're looking for, they should ask us to check further. There's a convenient on-line inquiry form for just that purpose. The Treasury Bureau of Unclaimed Property searches for rightful owners by sending letters to last known addresses, advertising in newspapers, setting up informational booths at fairs and trade shows, searching the Internet, and soliciting the help of legislators, county officials and media outlets. The property comes from businesses and organizations that are subject to Pennsylvania's unclaimed property law, which requires them to turn over to the state assets that have been abandoned for seven years or more. Common types of unclaimed property are dormant bank accounts, stocks and dividends, uncashed payroll or accounts payable checks, uncollected utility deposits, unredeemed gift certificates, and safe deposit box contents.