The oldest account dates back to 1900. There is no time limit on claims, but no interest is paid on amounts refunded. Privacy legislation prevents publication of owner names. Citizens should contact their local tax office for additional information. Unclaimed asset practices with regard to items other than bank accounts and tax refunds vary by province.
Most programs are in the developmental stages.
The Province of Ontario does not have an unclaimed property program such as exists in the United States. While a comprehensive unclaimed property law is not in force in Ontario, the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee does administer property that belonged to dissolved corporations that were incorporated in Ontario. For inquiries about an estate, provide the full name of the deceased, with date of death if available, and any other family information which could show your connection to the deceased. This office will supply information about an estate only to those persons who can demonstrate a blood relation to the deceased. In British Columbia, the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Relations administers the province's recently revised Unclaimed Property Act.