Repeat the process for every state where you or your deceased relatives lived. While laws require that companies turn over abandoned stocks to the state, not all companies comply. If you have lost track of stocks, begin your inquiries directly with the company. Many states publish newspaper advertisements listing the names of people who have money coming to them. If you check the list and don't find your name, keep searching.
Most states advertise only the names of people whose property they received during that year.
Some companies will locate unclaimed property and, for a percentage of what's due, will help collect it. It's perfectly legal, says Jundt, because the finder has obtained information from state records and by law is allowed to contract with people for a fee. The fee for assistance varies, but it averages between 10 and 25 percent of the total amount of the unclaimed property. A reliability report on asset finder companies can also be obtained from the Better Business Bureau . You have changed jobs or retired and failed to pick up your final paycheck.