Unclaimed property finder fees: the legal limit in each state

Finders, also called locators or heir finders, offer to recover unclaimed property for a share of it. You never need one: you can claim directly from the official program. If you do sign with a finder, state law often caps the fee and voids contracts signed too early. This table gives each state's rule from its statute or program.

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The caps at a glance
Finder-fee limits, state by state
Sources

The caps at a glance

5%: Washington
10%: Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin
15%: Iowa, Kansas, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina
20%: North Carolina, Utah
25%: Hawaii, Oklahoma
30%: Arizona, Florida
A percentage with conditions or carve-outs (read the rule in the table): California (10%), Georgia (30%), Indiana (10%), Louisiana (10%), Maine (15%), Minnesota (10%), Mississippi (10%), South Dakota (25%), Tennessee (10%)
Tiered caps (by amount or by time since the state received the property): Alaska (10–20%), Missouri (10–20%), Nevada (10–20%), New Jersey (20–35%)
No fixed percentage: District of Columbia, New Hampshire, New Mexico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Wyoming (other limits apply; see the table)
No cap stated in the official sources we could check: Guam, Idaho, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, Oregon, Puerto Rico, West Virginia

Many states also make a finder agreement void or unenforceable if it is signed within a set time after the property reaches the state, often 24 months; the model act drafted by the Uniform Law Commission in 2016 uses that period⁹⁷. The "Are finders allowed?" column gives each state's own rule.

Finder-fee limits, state by state

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Finder-fee limits by state
		Are finders allowed?	Contract rules
Alabama	10%¹10% of the value claimed (total compensation); buying or assigning property for a net profit above 10% is prohibited	Yes, with limits: finder agreements are void if signed from the date property is presumed abandoned until 24 months after it is delivered to the Treasurer (except agreements with an attorney to file a claim for identified property or contest a denial); after that they are enforceable only if they meet the written requirements.¹	Must be in writing; describe the property and services; state the property is held by the Alabama Treasurer, give contact information, and say it can be recovered from the Treasurer free; be signed by the apparent owner and state the fee percentage and any other deductions.¹	Ala. Code § 35-12-93 (as amended by Act 2026-285)¹
Alaska	10–20%²20 percent if the property is worth less than $500; 10 percent if it is worth $500 or more.	Yes, with limits. Alaska has no special requirements or licenses for finders, but an agreement is unenforceable before property reaches the state and for 24 months after.³	In writing, signed by the owner, no longer than six months, stating the fees, the nature and value of the property and the owner's share after the fee, and made after the 24-month period.³	AS 34.45.700³
Arizona	30%⁴30% of the value of the recoverable property reported to ADOR.	Yes, with a waiting period. Any agreement whose main purpose is to locate or recover presumed-abandoned property is void if signed between the date the property was presumed abandoned and 24 months after it was paid or delivered to ADOR.⁴	To be enforceable the agreement must be in writing, clearly state the nature of the property and the services, be signed by the apparent owner, and state the property's value before and after the fee.⁴	A.R.S. § 44-327 (Agreement to locate property). azleg.gov/ars/44/00327.htm⁴
Arkansas	10%⁵10% of the amount collected	Yes.⁵	Agreement void if made from the presumed-abandonment date until 24 months after delivery to the state (the exemption covers attorney agreements to claim identified property).⁶	A.C.A. § 18-28-225 (Agreement to locate property); 18 CAR §§ 21-501–21-502⁷
California	10%, with conditions⁸10% of the recovered property (Code of Civil Procedure section 1582(a)(2)(C)). There is no fee cap for county probated estate claims.	Yes, but only after the property has been delivered to the SCO.⁹	The agreement must be in writing and disclose the nature and value of the property, that the Controller holds it, and the address where the owner can claim it directly.⁸	Cal. Code of Civil Procedure section 1582⁹
Colorado	10%¹⁰10% of the property (by rule, all property types); foreclosure overbids capped at 10% since HB25-1224 (previously 20%/30%)	Yes.¹¹	Agreements made within 24 months after the property reached the State are void.¹⁴	C.R.S. 38-13-1301 to 38-13-1304; rule 8 CCR 1508-1 section 1.5.11¹¹
Connecticut	10%¹⁵10% of the value of the recoverable property	Yes.¹⁵	Agreements are void if signed within two years after the holder's report was due (or between the due date and late filing, whichever is longer).¹⁶	CGS 3-70a(c) (amended by PA 22-118 and PA 24-81 sec. 100; re-enacted with only cross-reference wording changes by PA 26-94 sec. 6, effective July 1, 2026)¹⁵
Delaware	10% or $1,000¹⁷Total fees and costs may not exceed the lesser of $1,000 or 10% of the value of the property recovered (12 Del. C. § 1187(c), which is worded to apply to "an agreement under subsection (a)")	Yes.¹⁷	Agreement must be in a record describing the property and services, signed by the owner with notarized signature, state the estimated value before and after the fee, and disclose that the property is held by the Department of Finance; agreements made from the date the property became distributable until 24 months after it was paid to the State are void¹⁷	12 Del. C. §§ 1186-1188¹⁷
District of Columbia	No fixed percentage cap.¹⁸	Yes.¹⁹	Agreement must be a signed record stating the nature of the property, the services, and the amount expected to be recovered before and after the fee.¹⁸	D.C. Code §§ 41-163.01 to 41-163.03²⁰
Florida	30%²¹30% of the claimed amount: fees and costs under a recovery agreement, or the discount under a purchase agreement.	Yes, but only through a 'claimant representative': a Florida Bar attorney, Florida CPA or Florida-licensed private investigator registered with the Department.²¹	The state's 'Abandoned Property Recovery Agreement' or 'Abandoned Property Purchase Agreement' form is the only agreement allowed, used without changes²¹	ss. 717.135 (agreements, 30% cap), 717.1356 (purchase agreements), 717.1400 (registration), 717.1322 (enforcement), F.S.²¹
Georgia	30%, with conditions²²30% of the claimed amount or the property's value, whichever is lower, under a Recovery Agreement; no cap if a court order is required to prove entitlement, and no cap on Purchase Agreements (owner sells the property to the CDR)	Yes.²³	Must use DOR's standard forms (UP-CDR2 Recovery Agreement / UP-CDR4 Purchase Agreement) or the claim is void; agreements must disclose total value, fee percentage and dollar amount, net to claimant, account numbers, CDR registration number; notarized; extra terms only if property exceeds $2,000 and only with signed Addendum UP-CDR3 (disputes may go to interpleader in Fulton County Superior Court); claimant may revoke; no advance fees; solicitations must carry the state-mandated notice; agreements made on/after July 1, 2026 unenforceable for 120 days after the date of payment or the delivery of the property to DOR²⁴	O.C.G.A. §§ 44-12-224, 44-12-239, 44-12-239.1, 44-12-239.2 (as enacted by SB 103, 2023, effective July 1, 2024) and § 44-12-220(d.1)(4) (SB 403, effective July 1, 2026)²⁵
Guam	—	—	—	—
Hawaii	25%²⁶25% of the total value of the property: an agreement providing for more is unenforceable except by the owner, and the owner (or the administrator on the owner's behalf) may sue to reduce it to 25%.	Yes.²⁷	An agreement to locate/recover presumed-abandoned property is void and unenforceable if made between the date the property was presumed abandoned and 24 months after it is paid or delivered to the State.²⁶	HRS 523A-25²⁶
Idaho	—	Allowed only outside a 24-month window: an agreement to locate property held by the Treasurer is void if signed between the date the property was presumed abandoned and 24 months after it was paid or delivered to the State.²⁸	The Treasurer pays only the owner (or a court-appointed guardian, or the parent of a minor) and is not bound by a power of attorney or assignment presented for the owner or an heir.²⁹	Idaho Code 14-5-1301 and 14-5-1302 (Part 13, "Agreement to locate property of apparent owner held by administrator"); see also 14-5-907²⁸
Illinois	10%³⁰10% of the amount collected	Yes.³⁰	No fee until property has been in the Treasurer's custody at least 24 months; finder must hold a Treasurer-issued license (from 2026: $500 non-refundable application fee, background check, fidelity bond up to $100,000, license valid 3 years; CPA firms register instead); required contract disclosures; Treasurer pays the finder directly only if the contract clearly says so; claims must include a signed, dated, notarized copy of the finder contract.³¹	765 ILCS 1026, Article 13 (Sections 15-1301 to 15-1303): 10% fee cap and 24-month void period in 15-1302; finder license required on or after January 1, 2026 under Section 15-1303, added by Public Act 104-0116 (SB1667), effective January 1, 2026. Rules: 74 Ill. Adm. Code 760.650 (Agreements to Locate Property), 760.651 (Finder Licensing), 760.653 (CPA Firm Registration and Claims).³²
Indiana	10% or $5,000, with conditions³³10% of the amount collected (no percentage limit when the amount collected is $50 or less), and never more than $5,000. A higher fee is unconscionable and unenforceable except by the owner; the owner or the Attorney General may sue to reduce it, and a prevailing owner may be awarded attorney's fees (IC 32-34-1.5-75(c)).	Yes. Private finders and recovery firms may charge a fee, but filing directly with the state is free.³⁴	An agreement to locate or recover property held by the Attorney General is enforceable only if it is in a record that clearly states the property and services, is signed by or for the owner, states the expected recovery before and after the fee, and tells the owner that a claim can be made free through the Attorney General's office (IC 32-34-1.5-74).³³	IC 32-34-1.5-74 (Agreements to locate or recover property); IC 32-34-1.5-75 (Unenforceable agreements); IC 32-34-1.5-76 (Agent of apparent owner)³⁵
Iowa	15%³⁶15% of the recoverable property	Yes.³⁷	Agreements made within 24 months after the property is delivered to the Treasurer are unenforceable, as are agreements on property a holder has not yet reported.³⁶	Iowa Code §556.11(10); Iowa Admin. Code 781—9.23; also §556.2C(2) (state warrants) and §714.8(16) (fraudulent practice)³⁷
Kansas	15%³⁸15% of the value of the recoverable property (agreements made after the 24-month period); any higher fee makes the agreement unenforceable.	Yes, but a finder agreement made within 24 months after the property was paid or delivered to the Treasurer is unenforceable.³⁸	Before giving a third party any information, the Treasurer may require a copy of the agreement signed by the claimant.³⁸	K.S.A. 58-3968 (Agreement to locate reported property)³⁸
Kentucky	10%³⁹10% of the value of the property collected	Yes, within limits. An agreement is void if made from the date of presumed abandonment until 24 months after delivery to the state, except an owner's agreement with an attorney to file a claim on identified property or contest a denial.³⁹	Must be written and signed by the apparent owner, state the property and services, and state the value before and after the fee.³⁹	KRS 393.117; also KRS 393A.760 (agents) and 20 KAR 1:040, Section 2(5)³⁹
Louisiana	10%, with conditions⁴¹10% of the total claim value for a fiduciary agent. For other agreements outside the void period, no percentage is stated, but an owner or the state can sue to cut unconscionable pay.	Restricted. Any pay agreement is void if signed from the date property is presumed abandoned until 24 months after it reaches the state.⁴¹	Must be in writing, describe the property and services, be signed by the apparent owner, and state the value before and after the fee.⁴¹	La. R.S. 9:177, as amended by Acts 2023, No. 351; definition at R.S. 9:153(10). legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=106764⁴¹
Maine	15%, with conditions⁴²15% for agreements made more than 24 but less than 36 months after delivery to the Treasurer. No percentage cap is stated for later agreements, but unconscionable compensation can be reduced by a court.	Yes, with limits. An agreement is void if made from the date property is presumed abandoned until 24 months after it reaches the Treasurer.⁴²	Must be in writing, set out the property and services, be signed by the apparent owner, and state the value before and after the fee.⁴²	33 M.R.S. §2201⁴²
Maryland	—	Allowed only after 24 months in state custody; earlier agreements are unenforceable.⁴³	Agreements made within 24 months of the property's delivery to the state are unenforceable.⁴³	Md. Code, Commercial Law § 17-325⁴³
Massachusetts	10%⁴⁴10% of the property; no added legal or filing fees	Yes, but only agreements made after the first 24 months⁴⁴	In writing, signed by the owner, disclosing the nature and value of the property and who holds it.⁴⁴	M.G.L. c. 200A, §13; 960 CMR 4.06⁴⁵
Michigan	—	Allowed with a time limit: an agreement to pay someone to recover reported property is unenforceable if made within 24 months after the property was paid or delivered to the state.⁴⁶	An agreement to pay compensation for recovery is unenforceable if made within 24 months after the property was paid or delivered to the state.⁴⁶	MCL 567.256 (agreements), MCL 567.256a (locator registration and account information), MCL 567.222(m) (definition of locator); 1995 PA 29 as amended by 2016 PA 312⁴⁶
Minnesota	10%, with conditions⁴⁷10% of the recoverable property, unless the agreement is written, signed by the owner, and discloses the nature and value of the property and the holder's name and address. An owner can challenge any fee as excessive or unjust at any time.	Yes.⁴⁷	No finder contracts or fee requests within 24 months of the property's delivery to the State.⁴⁸	Minn. Stat. 345.515 (Agreements to locate reported property)⁴⁷
Mississippi	10%, with conditions⁴⁹10% of the recoverable property or $50, whichever is greater	Yes.⁴⁹	No finder contract or fee request until 7 months after the holder delivered the property to the State; the Treasurer must approve every finder contract; send a copy of the contract with the claim; the Treasury will not deduct the fee from the payment; the owner may challenge an excessive fee at any time⁴⁹	Miss. Code Ann. § 89-12-25⁴⁹
Missouri	10–20%⁵⁰Within 12 months of delivery: agreement unenforceable; 12 to 24 months: 10%; 24 to 36 months: 15%; Over 36 months: 20%	Yes.⁵⁰	Agreement made after the holder report is filed must disclose the nature and value of the property, be in writing, and be signed and acknowledged by the owner (447.581.1).; Finder must register with the Treasurer before filing a claim, certify tax/business good standing, and recertify annually; claims by unregistered paid representatives are invalid (447.581.3).; Treasurer may suspend registration for violations, with written notice and a chapter 536 hearing on request (447.581.5).; Fixed-fee or hourly agreements not contingent on finding property are exempt from 447.581.1 unless used to evade it (447.581.7).; Owner may at any time claim the fee is excessive or unjust (447.581.8).; Treasurer may withhold payment until satisfied the claim is legitimate and the owner knows the nature and potential value of the claim (447.581.10).; Every claim form must warn that unregistered paid finders face penalties (447.562).; Paid locators may not inspect or copy the Treasurer's owner records until 90 days after the owners' names have been published or officially disclosed (447.543.2).; Any agreement to pay compensation for recovering military medals delivered to the Treasurer is unenforceable, and registered finders cannot be named medal custodians (447.559(4)).⁵⁰	§ 447.581 RSMo (registration, caps); § 447.562 RSMo (claim-form warning); § 447.543.2 (records access); § 447.559(4) (military medals)⁵¹
Montana	—	Allowed only outside a ban window.⁵²	Must be in writing, clearly set out the nature of the property and the services, be signed by the apparent owner, and state the value before and after the fee.⁵²	70-9-825, MCA⁵²
Nebraska	10%⁵³10% of the total dollar amount of the property	Yes.⁵³	No fee may be charged until 24 months after the names are published or officially disclosed.⁵³	Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-1317(a)(1)(ii)-(iii)⁵³
Nevada	10–20%⁵⁴10% of the property's total value if it was delivered to the Treasurer less than 5 years before the agreement was signed; 20% if 5 years or more. Higher fees are unenforceable except by the owner, and the owner (or the Treasurer for the owner) may sue to reduce them.	Yes, with limits: agreements to locate or recover property are void if signed from the date the property is presumed abandoned until 24 months after it is delivered to the Treasurer (agreements with an attorney to file a claim or contest a denial are exempt).⁵⁴	The agreement must be in writing, describe the property and services, state the date the property was delivered to the Treasurer, include a statement of NRS 120A.740, be signed by the apparent owner, and state the property's value before and after the fee.⁵⁴	NRS 120A.740 (Agreement to locate property; regulations); NAC 120A.060(3)⁵⁴
New Hampshire	No percentage cap; the owner may challenge a fee as excessive or unjust at any time.⁵⁵	Yes, but any finder agreement made within 24 months after the property was paid or delivered to the state is unenforceable.⁵⁵	Agreement must be in writing, signed by the owner, state the nature and value of the property and the owner's share after the fee, and include a prescribed disclosure that each state has an abandoned property office acting as custodian.⁵⁵	RSA 471-C:39 (Agreement to Locate, Deliver, or Recover Reported Property)⁵⁵
New Jersey	20–35%⁵⁶20% of the value recovered for agreements made after the 24-month period; 35% for agreements made before the property was presumed abandoned. The owner may still challenge any agreement as excessive or unjust at any time.	Yes, with limits. Finder agreements made within 24 months after the property is paid or delivered to the state are void.⁵⁶	No enforceable agreement for 24 months after the state receives the property.⁵⁶	N.J.S.A. 46:30B-106 (Unenforceable agreements), L.1989, c.58, amended L.1995, c.361⁵⁶
New Mexico	No fixed percentage cap.⁵⁷	Yes, with limits. A finder ('locator') agreement is void if signed between the date the property was presumed abandoned and 48 months after it was delivered to the state.⁵⁷	The agreement must be in writing, clearly describe the property and the services, be signed by the apparent owner, and state the property's value before and after the fee.⁵⁷	Section 7-8A-25 NMSA 1978 (Agreement to locate property)⁵⁸
New York	15%⁵⁹15% of the value of the recoverable property (an agreement charging more is invalid)	Yes, with rules: finder ("abandoned property location services") agreements are regulated by APL §1416 and solicitations by General Business Law §393-e.⁶⁰	A finder agreement is valid only if it is in the form the Comptroller prescribes, in writing, signed by the owner, and witnessed and acknowledged by a notary public; it must disclose the nature of the property and the Comptroller's name and address, and state in at least 12-point bold type that the owner can get the funds from the Comptroller free, that they are held indefinitely, and the Comptroller's phone number and website.⁶¹	APL §1416 (added by Chapter 173 of 1980; amended by Chapter 332 of 2012 and Chapter 372 of 2014); General Business Law §393-e (added by Chapter 332 of 2012; subd. 2 amended by Chapter 372 of 2014)⁶¹
North Carolina	20% or $1,000⁶²Total fees and costs may not exceed $1,000 or 20% of the property recovered, whichever is less (for all properties due an owner combined)	Yes.⁶³	Waiting period: Void if signed between the date property became distributable and 24 months after it was paid/delivered to the Treasurer (attorney agreements to file a claim or contest a denial excepted); Form: In writing; describes property (type, Treasurer property ID, holder) and services; signed by owner with notarized signature and by a licensed PI authorized to bind the finder, also notarized; Disclosures: Must state other claims may reduce the owner's share; property value before and after fees; fees and costs; that the property is held by the NC Department of State Treasurer's Unclaimed Property Program; Heirs: Heir agreements must certify the personal representative is not tied to the finder; finders and their agents may not serve as personal representative; Payment: Finder may receive cash but may not negotiate or deposit the owner's check; tangibles go to the owner and securities are reregistered to the owner; Mineral proceeds: Compensation provisions taking a share of underlying minerals or future mineral proceeds are void; Penalty: Noncompliant agreements are void and an unfair or deceptive trade practice under G.S. 75-1.1; registration can be denied or suspended up to one year; Registration: Annual registration with the Treasurer, $100 fee; approval required before signing contracts; finders may not generate claims online and must request claim IDs via [email protected]⁶²	N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 116B-78 and 116B-78.1; registration rule 20 NCAC 08 .0111⁶³
North Dakota	10%⁶⁴10% of the amount recovered	Yes.⁶⁴	Agreement must be in writing, describe the property and services, state the fee (max 10%), disclose that the owner could recover the property from the state free, and be signed by the owner; the finder must comply with ch. 43-30 (private investigator licensing).⁶⁴	N.D.C.C. 47-30.2-68, 47-30.2-69, 47-30.2-70; N.D.C.C. ch. 43-30; N.D. Admin. Code 85-03-03-04 and -05⁶⁵
Ohio	10%⁶⁶10% of the total amount claimed (also max 10% of any interest paid)	Yes.⁶⁶	Finders may not contact owners until the property has been held by the Division for 2 years; written agreement must state the nature and value of the funds, net amount to owner, that the State pays the owner directly, that the finder is not a Commerce employee/agent and the Director is not a party, and the finder's registration number and expiry; agreement must be approved by the Division before a claim is created; owner pays the finder only after receiving payment⁶⁷	ORC 169.13 (agreements), 169.14, 169.16 (registration), 169.17, 169.99 (penalty)⁶⁸
Oklahoma	25%⁶⁹25% of the value recovered	Yes.⁶⁹	Agreement must be in writing and signed by the claimant (by hand or electronically).⁶⁹	60 O.S. §674.1 (limit on service fees); also §651(6), (22) and §674(A)(3), (E); OAC 735:80-7-2(b)(13)⁶⁹
Oregon	—	Yes: finders may file claims for clients if they hold an Oregon private investigator license (DPSST, ORS 703.401-703.470).⁷⁰	Notarized power of attorney from the owner; copy of the finder's current license with the initial POA and the license number on later POAs; the claimant (or heir/personal representative) must sign the claim form; proof of ownership is required (name similarity is not enough).⁷⁰	ORS 703.401-703.470 (private investigator licensing); OAR 170-140 (Unclaimed Property Claims/Finders Rules)⁷⁰
Pennsylvania	15%⁷¹15% of the value of the property.	Yes, with a Treasury certificate of registration.⁷²	Finder agreements are valid only if they meet all six statutory conditions.⁷¹	72 P.S. §§ 1301.11(g)-(j), 1301.11a, 1301.11b, 1301.11c, 1301.25(d)⁷³
Puerto Rico	—	—	No finder-contract rules; OCIF says claiming is free and no contract is needed.⁷⁴	—
Rhode Island	10%⁷⁵10% of the value of the property, all compensation included (no extra service or research fees).	Yes, but only after 24 months: any fee agreement made within 24 months after the property is paid or delivered to the state is unenforceable.⁷⁵	In writing; signed by the owner; must say the owner can claim from the General Treasurer free of charge; must state the nature and value of the property and the owner's share after the fee.⁷⁵	R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-21.1-35 (Agreement to locate reported property)⁷⁵
South Carolina	15%⁷⁷15% of the value returned to the owner	Yes, with limits: agreements made within 24 months after the property is paid or delivered to the State are unenforceable; after that, fees are capped at 15%.⁷⁷	24-month waiting period after remittance to the State (earlier agreements unenforceable); violation is a misdemeanor: fine of at least the fee sought up to ten times it, and/or up to 30 days' jail.⁷⁷	S.C. Code § 27-18-360⁷⁷
South Dakota	25%, with conditions⁷⁸25% threshold. An agreement made more than 24 months after delivery with a fee above 25% of the recoverable value is invalid unless it is in writing and signed by the owner. The statute sets no absolute cap, and the owner may challenge any fee as excessive at any time.	Restricted. Fee agreements made from 12 months before the holder reports until 24 months after the property is delivered to the state are unenforceable.⁷⁸	Contract must be in writing and signed by the owner if the fee is over 25%.⁷⁸	SDCL 43-41B-36 (Agreements to locate reported property)⁷⁸
Tennessee	10%, with conditions⁷⁹10% of the value of the recoverable property or $50, whichever is greater (property already held by the Treasurer)	Yes.⁷⁹	Agreements for property held by the Treasurer must be in a signed record that describes the property and services and states the value before and after the fee, within the 10%/$50 cap.⁷⁹	Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 66-29-176 and 66-29-177; Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. Feb. 1, 1700-.08⁷⁹
Texas	10%⁸¹10% of the value recovered, plus reasonable attorney's fees needed to pursue the claim (statute 74.507).	Yes.⁸²	An agreement is enforceable only if it clearly states the property and services, is signed by or for the claimant, and states the expected recovery before and after the fee.⁸²	Tex. Prop. Code §74.507 (state-held property); §76.506 (property held by local treasurers)⁸²
U.S. Virgin Islands	No fixed percentage cap.⁸³	Allowed, with limits. A finder (locator) agreement is void if signed between the date the property is presumed abandoned and 24 months after it is delivered to the Administrator.⁸³	The agreement must be in writing, describe the property and the services, be signed by the apparent owner, and state the property's value before and after the fee.⁸³	28 V.I.C. § 676 (Agreement to locate property)⁸³
Utah	20%⁸⁴20% of the amount collected, by rule (R966-1-37), not by statute.	Yes.⁸⁵	Void if signed during the 24 months after the holder delivers the property to the state.⁸⁶	Utah Code 67-4a-1301 to 1303; Utah Admin. Code R966-1-37 (the program FAQ still cites the old number R966-1-36, which is now 'Reserved' under a different heading)⁸⁶
Vermont	10%⁸⁷10% of the value of the unclaimed property	Yes, with limits: asset locators must register with the Treasurer and post a bond; agreements are void if signed from the date the property is delivered to the Treasurer until 24 months after.⁸⁷	Written agreement that states the nature of the property and services, signed by the owner, and states the value before and after the fee.⁸⁷	27 V.S.A. §§1601-1604⁸⁷
Virginia	10%⁸⁸10 percent of the value of the recoverable property	Yes, but no fee for locating property the person knows has been reported or delivered to the state may be sought, received or contracted for until 36 months after the holder delivered it to the state.⁸⁸	The owner may challenge an agreement as excessive or unjust at any time.⁸⁸	Code of Virginia § 55.1-2542⁸⁸
Washington	5%⁸⁹5% of the value of the property reasonably expected to be recovered	Yes.⁹⁰	The agreement must be in a signed record that states the nature of the property, the services, and the amount expected before and after the fee.⁸⁹	RCW 63.30.780, 63.30.790, 63.30.800⁸⁹
West Virginia	—	—	No finder-contract rules in law.⁹³	—
Wisconsin	10%⁹⁴10% of the actual value of the property recovered	Yes.⁹⁴	Written agreement must: explain services and state the fee (max 10%) clearly and prominently; show the property value before and after the fee; describe the property; give the holder's name and address; be signed by the owner/agent; state clearly that the owner can claim from DOR free without a locator.⁹⁴	Wis. Stat. ch. 177, Subchapter XIII (DOR cites secs. 177.1301 and 177.1302); agreement requirements at sec. 177.1301(2) and locator penalty added by 2025 Wis. Act 112⁹⁴
Wyoming	No percentage cap⁹⁵	Yes, but finder agreements made within 24 months after the property is delivered to the state are unenforceable; finders need not register.⁹⁵	Agreements made within 24 months after the holder pays the state are unenforceable; later agreements must be in writing; agreements for property still with a holder are unenforceable if made within 12 months before the holder's report date.⁹⁶	W.S. 34-24-136 (Agreements to locate property)⁹⁶

If a finder has already contacted you, the property is usually listed on the official search, where you can claim it yourself at no cost. Our scam check covers the warning signs states and federal agencies publish, and how finders work explains contracts and your options.

A dash means the official sources we could check do not state that value; it does not mean the answer is no. See the state's official site.

Sources

Footnote numbers point here. Open "Quoted text" for the exact words relied on ("[…]" marks words left out).

Code of Alabama § 35-12-93 Alabama Legislature (ALISON) · alison.legislature.state.al.us · current code as displayed Nov. 3, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(e) Total compensation in an agreement covered by this section may not exceed 10 percent of the value of the amount claimed.
(a) An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, recover, or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned, is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the State Treasurer.
(4) States that the property may be recovered from the State Treasurer without the payment of a fee;
(Act 2004-440, p. 755, §1; Act 2013-91, p. 192, §1; Act 2026-285, §1.)
FAQs: Fee Finder Information Alaska Department of Revenue, Treasury Division · unclaimedproperty.alaska.gov · read Nov. 3, 2026; page undated · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Property equal to or greater than $500 can not be charged a fee in excess of 10%
Alaska Statutes AS 34.45, Uniform Unclaimed Property Act Alaska State Legislature (akleg.gov) · akleg.gov · site serves the 2025 statutes (page script year=2025) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

An agreement to pay compensation to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property reported under AS 34.45.280 while in the possession of a holder is unenforceable if made
the agreement is in writing, signed by the apparent owner, does not exceed six months, and specifies the fees to be charged, nature and value of the property, and the value of the apparent owner's share after the fee or compensation is deducted.
Sec. 34.45.700. Agreement to locate reported property.
A.R.S. § 44-327 — Agreement to locate property Arizona State Legislature (azleg.gov) · azleg.gov · current statute text as published on azleg.gov (undated page) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

The fee or payment agreed on shall not be more than thirty per cent of the value of the recoverable property reported to the department.
1. An agreement entered into by an owner with another person if the primary purpose of that agreement is to locate, deliver, recover or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned, if the agreement was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is twenty-four months after the date that the property is paid or delivered to the department.
1. Enforceable if the agreement is in writing, clearly states the nature of the property and the services to be performed, is signed by the apparent owner and states the value of the property before and after the fee or other compensation has been deducted.
Agreement to locate property
Arkansas Unclaimed Property Administrative Rules, 18 CAR § 21-101 et seq. (final) Arkansas Auditor of State · auditor.ar.gov · 11/03/2025 (effective Nov. 3, 2025) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

(b) The total amount that a finder may charge an apparent owner shall be limited to not more than ten percent (10%) of the amount of unclaimed property collected.
(a) No person shall be entitled to a fee for discovering presumptively abandoned property until it has been in custody of the Auditor of State for at least twenty-four (24) months.
Act 850 of 1999 (SB 405), "The Unclaimed Property Act" (as enacted) Arkansas General Assembly (arkleg.state.ar.us) · arkleg.state.ar.us · 1999 (as enacted; later amended) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the administrator.
Code of Arkansas Public Access – TOC of Title 18, Ch. 28, Subch. 2 Arkansas Bureau of Legislative Research / LexisNexis · advance.lexis.com · current code (TOC only) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

18-28-225. Agreement to locate property.
Unclaimed Property Law and Regulations (official SCO compilation of Code of Civil Procedure section 1500-1582 and 2 CCR 1150 et seq.) (PDF) California State Controller's Office · sco.ca.gov · February 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

(C) The fee or compensation agreed upon is not in excess of 10 percent of the recovered property.
(A) The agreement is in writing and includes a disclosure of the nature and value of the property, that the Controller is in possession of the property, and the address where the owner can directly claim the property from the Controller.
FAQ: Claiming Property California State Controller's Office, Unclaimed Property Division · claimit.ca.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

Investigators are not allowed to contract with a property owner to help the owner recover unclaimed property until after the property is transferred to the State Controller’s Office for safekeeping.
It is against the law for investigators to charge a fee greater than 10% of the value of the property that is returned to you. (California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1582
Unclaimed Property Rules, 8 CCR 1508-1 Colorado Department of the Treasury (State Treasurer) · unclaimedproperty.colorado.gov · entire rule eff. 11/30/2021 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Except as otherwise provided in the Act, agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under the RUUPA are unenforceable within 24 months after date of payment or delivery to the Administrator. Compensation shall not exceed 10% except as provided by the Act.
Finder Information Colorado Department of the Treasury · unclaimedproperty.colorado.gov · page last updated 6/13/2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

For all properties : the maximum compensation to be paid cannot exceed 10% .
Any agreement to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported which is entered into more than 24 months after the date of payment or delivery is made to the Treasury, is enforceable.
Please note that CRS 38-13-1301 now addresses property recovery for Colorado.
HB25-1224, Session Laws 2025 ch. 440 – Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act Modifications Colorado General Assembly · leg.colorado.gov · approved June 4, 2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

(IV) The compensation to be paid under the terms of the agreement does not exceed (A) Twenty TEN percent of the amount of the overbid
HB25-1224 bill page and summary Colorado General Assembly · leg.colorado.gov · signed act 06/04/2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Section 14 reduces the maximum amount of compensation allowed to be paid under an agreement to recover or assist in recovering an unclaimed overbid transferred to the administrator from either 30% or 20% of the amount of the overbid depending on when the agreement is entered into to 10% of the amount of overbid without regard to when the agreement was entered into;
Colorado Revised Statutes 2024, Title 38 (Article 13 extract) Colorado General Assembly, Office of Legislative Legal Services · content.leg.colorado.gov · archived copy, captured Sept. 26, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(d) States that the apparent owner may directly file a claim for property with the administrator of a state's unclaimed property act, who in Colorado is the state treasurer, without being charged a fee by the administrator.
(1) Subject to subsection (2) of this section, an agreement under section 38-13-1301 is void if it is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was paid or delivered by a holder to the administrator and ending twenty-four months after the payment or delivery.
(2) The administrator shall give the agent of the apparent owner nonconfidential status updates.
(2) A person who induces or attempts to induce another person to enter into an agreement described in this section that does not comply with all requirements of subsection (1) of this section commits a class 2 misdemeanor.
FAQs: Finders Connecticut Office of the Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division · ctbiglist.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

No more than 10% of the underlying properties' value may be retained or charged by a finder.
As used here, a finder is a person or entity that, pursuant to an agreement to locate property, claims property that was reported as belonging to someone else in return for a fee or other compensation.
Finders must follow Connecticut General Statute section 3-70a(c)
2026 Supplement to the General Statutes, Chapter 32 (sections amended in 2025 sessions) Connecticut General Assembly · cga.ct.gov · 2026 Supplement, revised to January 1, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

(B) In addition to the requirements set forth in subparagraph (B) of subdivision (1) of this subsection, an agreement entered into on or after January 1, 2025, to locate property shall be valid only if such agreement is in writing, is signed by the owner and clearly and conspicuously discloses (i) the nature and value of the property, (ii) the owner's share after the fee or compensation has been subtracted from such value, and (iii) that the owner may file a claim directly with the Treasurer at no cost and the method through which such claim may be filed.
Delaware Code Title 12, Chapter 11, Subchapter II. Unclaimed Property (§§ 1130-1191) Delaware General Assembly / Delaware Code Online · delcode.delaware.gov · current Delaware Code Online text (latest session law cited: 84 Del. Laws c. 368, 2024) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(c) For an agreement under subsection (a) of this section, total fees and costs may not exceed $1,000 or 10% of the value of the property recovered, whichever is less.
An agreement by an owner and a person, a purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the location, delivery, or recovery of property held by the State Escheator, is enforceable only if the agreement meets all of the following criteria:
(a) Subject to subsection (b) of this section, an agreement under § 1186 of this title is void and unenforceable if it is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was distributable to the owner and ending 24 months after the payment or delivery.
1186. When agreement to locate property enforceable.
D.C. Code § 41–163.02. When agreement to locate property void. Council of the District of Columbia (D.C. Law Library) · code.dccouncil.gov · current as published on code.dccouncil.gov, Nov. 3, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

An apparent owner that believes the compensation the apparent owner has agreed to pay is unconscionable may file an action in the Superior Court to reduce the compensation to the maximum amount that is not unconscionable.
(a) Subject to subsection (b) of this section, an agreement under § 41-163.01 is void if it is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was paid or delivered by a holder to the Administrator and ending 24 months after the payment or delivery.
D.C. Code § 41–163.01. When agreement to locate property enforceable. Council of the District of Columbia (D.C. Law Library) · code.dccouncil.gov · current as published on code.dccouncil.gov, Nov. 3, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

An agreement by an apparent owner and another person, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the location, delivery, or recovery of property held by the Administrator, is enforceable only if the agreement:
D.C. Code § 41–163.03. Right of agent of apparent owner to recover property held by Administrator. Council of the District of Columbia (D.C. Law Library) · code.dccouncil.gov · current as published on code.dccouncil.gov, Nov. 3, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

(a) An apparent owner that contracts with another person to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the location, delivery, or recovery of property of the apparent owner which is held by the Administrator may designate the person as the agent of the apparent owner.
Chapter 717, Florida Statutes (2026), Florida Disposition of Abandoned Personal Property Act The Florida Legislature · leg.state.fl.us · 2026 Florida Statutes · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(j) The total fees and costs, or the total discount in the case of a purchase agreement, which may not exceed 30 percent of the claimed amount.
(12) “Claimant representative” means an attorney who is a member in good standing with The Florida Bar, a certified public accountant licensed in this state, or a private investigator licensed in this state who is registered with the department and authorized to file claims on behalf of persons with the department.
(4) A claimant representative must use the Abandoned Property Recovery Agreement or the Abandoned Property Purchase Agreement as the exclusive means of entering into an agreement or a contract with a claimant or seller to file a claim with the department.
717.135 Recovery agreements and purchase agreements for claims filed by a claimant representative; fees and costs or total net gain.—
SB 103 (2023), Act 81, as passed - amending O.C.G.A. Title 44, Ch. 12, Art. 5 Georgia General Assembly · legis.ga.gov · signed May 1, 2023; effective July 1, 2024 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

(d)(1) The total fees and costs under an Unclaimed Property Recovery Agreement may not exceed 30 percent of the claimed amount or the unclaimed property's value, whichever is lower.
General Unclaimed Property FAQs Georgia Department of Revenue · dor.georgia.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

In Georgia it is legal for Claimants’ Designated Representatives also know as “finders” or “locators” to provide unclaimed property location services in Georgia provided they are registered with the state and follow all regulations.
SB 403 (2026), Act 410, as passed - amending O.C.G.A. Title 44, Ch. 12, Art. 5 and Title 48 Georgia General Assembly · legis.ga.gov · signed May 5, 2026; effective July 1, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

(4) All unclaimed property purchase agreements and unclaimed property recovery agreements entered into on or after July 1, 2026, and reported and delivered to the commissioner under this article shall be unenforceable for 120 days after the date of payment or the delivery of property to the commissioner.
Claimant Designated Representative Registration Program Overview Georgia Department of Revenue · dor.georgia.gov · 06/2024 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

For a complete list of prohibited acts, consult Section 44-12-239.2 of the Official Code of Georgia.
HRS 523A-25 Agreement to locate property Hawaii State Legislature (Hawaii Revised Statutes, capitol.hawaii.gov) · capitol.hawaii.gov · archived copy, captured Feb. 17, 2025 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

(d) An agreement covered by this section that provides for compensation that exceeds twenty-five per cent of the total value of the property shall be unenforceable except by the owner.
(a) An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned shall be void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is twenty-four months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the administrator.
§523A-25 Agreement to locate property.
Owner Information – Frequently Asked Questions Department of Budget and Finance (State of Hawaii) · budget.hawaii.gov · page modified Feb. 14, 2020 (WordPress API) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Professional locators and heir finders are businesses that contact unclaimed property owners to assist in the recovery of abandoned property for a fee. Laws governing fees and other requirements are included in Chapter 523A-25, Hawaii Revised Statutes.
Idaho Code 14-5-1301 (Revised Unclaimed Property Act), section page Idaho Legislature (Legislative Services Office) · legislature.idaho.gov · archived copy, captured March 17, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

an agreement to locate property held by the administrator is void if it is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was presumed abandoned by a holder to the administrator and ending twenty-four (24) months after the payment or delivery.
14-5-1301. WHEN AGREEMENT TO LOCATE PROPERTY VOID.
Idaho Code 14-5-907 (Revised Unclaimed Property Act), section page Idaho Legislature (Legislative Services Office) · legislature.idaho.gov · archived copy, captured Dec. 30, 2025 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

(2) The administrator is not bound by any terms of a purported power of attorney or assignment that may be presented as having been executed by the purported owner, heir, legatee, or fiduciary of the estate of the deceased owner of property reported under this chapter.
FAQ | Unclaimed Property Finder Applications Illinois State Treasurer · illinoistreasurer.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

Yes. A finder’s agreement cannot allow compensation greater than 10% of the amount collected.
Yes. Anyone who acts as a finder in Illinois must have a valid finder’s license issued by the Illinois State Treasurer.
74 Ill. Adm. Code 760 - Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act rules (PDF posted by the Treasurer) Illinois State Treasurer · icash.illinoistreasurer.gov · rules as amended at 46 Ill. Reg. 16898, effective Sept. 26, 2022 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

No person or company shall be entitled to a fee for discovering presumptively abandoned property until it has been in the custody of the administrator for at least 24 months.
Public Act 104-0116 (SB1667 Enrolled), AN ACT concerning civil law (amends the Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act; adds Sec. 15-1303 finder licensing); effective 1/1/2026 Illinois General Assembly · ilga.gov · archived copy, captured Jan. 17, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

(765 ILCS 1026/15-1303 new) Sec. 15-1303. License to act as finder.
Indiana Code 2026, Title 32 (Property), PDF; IC 32-34-1.5 Revised Unclaimed Property Act Indiana General Assembly (Legislative Services Agency) · iga.in.gov · archived copy, captured Oct. 11, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

Compensation for an agreement under subsection (a) is unconscionable if the fee or compensation is more than ten percent (10%) of the amount collected, unless the amount collected is fifty dollars ($50) or less, and may not exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000).
is void if it is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was paid or delivered by a holder to the attorney general and ending twenty-four (24) months after the payment or delivery.
(4) informs the apparent owner that a claim for property held by the attorney general may be made without charge through the attorney general's office.
FAQs – Claiming Property Office of the Indiana Attorney General, Unclaimed Property Division · indianaunclaimed.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

However, private recovery agencies, finders and other third-party companies, may charge a fee for assisting you with the recovery of your unclaimed property.
Unclaimed Property Law (IC 32-34-1.5 section list) Office of the Indiana Attorney General, Unclaimed Property Division · indianaunclaimed.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

IC 32-34-1.5-74 Agreements to locate or recover property
Iowa Administrative Code 781—Chapter 9, Unclaimed Property Iowa Legislature · legis.iowa.gov · rules dated 02-05-2025 (listing pubDate 04-15-2026) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

In no case shall the locator fees or compensation exceed 15 percent of the amount of the property subject to claim.
A claim form signed by a locator shall not be reviewed by the division. The apparent owner or owner’s legal representative shall make direct contact with the division and sign the claim form.
Iowa Code 2026, Chapter 556 – Disposition of Unclaimed Property Iowa Legislature · legis.iowa.gov · Iowa Code 2026 (PDF generated Dec. 9, 2025) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

However, such agreements made after twenty-four months from the date of payment or delivery are valid if the fee or compensation agreed upon is not more than fifteen percent of the recoverable property, the agreement is in writing and signed by the owner, and the writing discloses the nature and value of the property and the name and address of the person in possession.
All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under this section, made within twenty-four months after the date payment or delivery is made under section 556.13, are unenforceable.
K.S.A. 58-3968. Agreement to locate reported property Kansas Office of Revisor of Statutes · ksrevisor.gov · K.S.A. current as published Nov. 3, 2026; last amended L. 2000 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(b) All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under K.S.A. 58-3950 , and amendments thereto, made more than 24 months after the date payment or delivery is made under K.S.A. 58-3952 , and amendments thereto, are unenforceable if the fee or compensation agreed upon is in excess of 15% of the value of the recoverable property.
(a) All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under K.S.A. 58-3950 , and amendments thereto, made within 24 months after the date payment or delivery is made under K.S.A. 58-3952 , and amendments thereto, are unenforceable.
The administrator may require a third party seeking information concerning unclaimed property held for an apparent owner to provide a copy of an agreement signed by the claimant before releasing any information to the third party.
Agreement to locate reported property.
KRS 393.117 Conditions governing enforceability of agreements to locate property Kentucky Legislative Research Commission · apps.legislature.ky.gov · effective July 15, 1998 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

The agreement provides that the fee or compensation agreed upon is an amount not more than ten percent (10%) of the value of the property collected;
An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned, is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date that the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is twenty-four (24) months after the date that the property is paid or delivered to the department.
An advertisement, a written communication, or an agreement concerning the location, delivery, recover, or assistance in the recovery of property reported under this chapter shall contain a provision stating that, by law, any contract provision requiring the payment of a fee for finding property that has been held by the administrator for less than twenty-four (24) months is void and not enforceable, and that fees are limited to an amount not more than ten percent (10%) of the value of the property collected.
393.117 Conditions governing enforceability of agreements to locate property presumed abandoned.
20 KAR 1:040 (engrossed text) Kentucky Legislative Research Commission · apps.legislature.ky.gov · (020 KAR 001:040. 21 Ky.R. 682; 1280; eff. 10-12-1994; 26 Ky.R. 409; 790; 987; eff. 11- 15-1999; 30 Ky.R. 1580; 2012; eff. 3-18-2004; Crt eff. 6-12-2019; Crt to Am 4-15-2026; Am due 10-15-2027; 52 Ky.R. 2103, 479; eff. 9-15-2026.) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

A notarized affidavit from the claimant stipulating that the finder or agent has explained to the claimant the law on unclaimed properties and that unclaimed property due the claimant may be claimed without a fee, free and simple; and
La. R.S. 9:177 Louisiana State Legislature · legis.la.gov · code text as displayed Nov. 3, 2026; history line in text · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

B. For his services, a fiduciary agent shall be entitled to compensation of an amount not to exceed ten percent of the total claim value.
A. An agreement by an owner to pay compensation to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is twenty-four months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the administrator.
G. Any agreement by an owner to pay compensation to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property is enforceable only if the agreement is in writing, clearly sets forth the nature of the property and the services to be rendered, is signed by the apparent owner, and states the value of the property before and after the fee or other compensation has been deducted.
Acts 1986, No. 829, §1, eff. July 10, 1986; Acts 1997, No. 809, §1, eff. July 10, 1997; Acts 2023, No. 351, §1, eff. June 12, 2023.
33 M.R.S. §2201 Maine Legislature, Office of the Revisor of Statutes · legislature.maine.gov · current through Second Regular Session, 132nd Legislature (current through October 1, 2026 per chapter notice) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

Fees or compensation under agreements made more than 24 months but less than 36 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the administrator may not exceed 15%.
An agreement by an owner the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the administrator.
An agreement by an owner the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover or assist in the recovery of property is enforceable only if the agreement is in writing, clearly sets forth the nature of the property and the services to be rendered, is signed by the apparent owner and states the value of the property before and after the fee or other compensation has been deducted.
A person who makes a claim for compensation in violation of this section commits an unfair trade practice in violation of Title 5, section 207.
Maryland Code, Commercial Law § 17-325 Maryland General Assembly (mgaleg.maryland.gov) · mgaleg.maryland.gov · current text as displayed Nov. 3, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property made within 24 months of the date the property is paid or delivered to the abandoned property office are unenforceable.
Heir Finders Massachusetts Office of the State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division · findmassmoney.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

(b) the fee or compensation does not exceed ten percent at any time.
All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under section seven made within twenty-four months after the date payment or delivery is made under section eight A are unenforceable.
(a) it is in writing, signed by the owner and discloses the nature and value of the property and the name and address of the person or entity in possession of the property.
960 CMR 4.00: Procedures for the Administration of Unclaimed Property Massachusetts Office of the State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division · findmassmoney.gov · page footers 5/25/01; PDF modified Feb. 16, 2012 (file metadata). The official mass.gov copy (massgov-960-400, dated 07/09/2004) matches it on every provision quoted in this record. · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 200A, § 13, agreements or contracts to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of unclaimed property between heir finders and owners are unenforceable if made within 24 months of the date the property was received by the Division.
Uniform Unclaimed Property Act, Act 29 of 1995 (MCL 567.221 et seq.), full act PDF Michigan Legislature · legislature.mi.gov · archived copy, captured Sept. 3, 2025 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

An agreement to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under section 18, made within 24 months after the date payment or delivery is made under section 20, is unenforceable.
A written agreement between a locator and an apparent owner of unclaimed property is subject to subsection (1).
567.256 Agreement to compensate for recovery of property; enforcement; agreement between locator and apparent unclaimed property owner.
Minnesota Statutes chapter 345, Unclaimed Property (full chapter) Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes · revisor.mn.gov · 2026 Minnesota Statutes · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

No agreement entered into after 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the commissioner is valid if a person thereby undertakes to locate property included in a report for a fee or other compensation exceeding ten percent of the value of the recoverable property unless the agreement is in writing and signed by the owner and discloses the nature and value of the property and the name and address of the holder thereof as such facts have been reported.
It is unlawful for a person to seek or receive from another person or contract with a person for a fee or compensation for locating property, knowing it to have been reported or paid or delivered to the commissioner pursuant to chapter 345 prior to 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the commissioner.
345.515 AGREEMENTS TO LOCATE REPORTED PROPERTY.
Unclaimed Property Process Report (under 2017 Minn. Laws ch. 94, art. 8, sec. 15) Minnesota Department of Commerce (archived by the Minnesota Legislative Reference Library) · lrl.mn.gov · Feb. 15, 2018 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Finders or Locators must complete claim form and have the form notorized
House Bill 1513 (As Introduced), 2019 Regular Session: amends 89-12-53 and brings forward Sections 89-12-3 through 89-12-49 and 89-12-55 in full Mississippi Legislature · billstatus.ls.state.ms.us · statute text as of the 2019 Regular Session (bill died; brought-forward sections reproduce the law then in force) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

The agreed upon fee in such contracts shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of the value of the recoverable property or Fifty Dollars ($50.00), whichever is greater.
It is unlawful for a person to seek to receive from another person or contract with a person for a fee or compensation for locating property which he knows has been reported, paid or delivered to the Treasurer pursuant to the provisions of this chapter prior to seven (7) months after the date of payment or delivery of the property by the holder to the Treasurer as required by Section 89-12-29.
The Treasurer shall approve all contracts entered into between two (2) or more persons whereby one (1) party to the contract agrees to furnish the other party with information concerning property reported to the Treasurer under this chapter.
Section 89-12-25, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:
RSMo § 447.581 (Revised Statutes of Missouri, current text) Missouri Revisor of Statutes (Joint Committee on Legislative Research) · revisor.mo.gov · 28 Aug 2018, 2 histories · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

Any agreement to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported or delivered to the treasurer which is made more than twelve months, but less than twenty-four months, after the date of payment or delivery to the treasurer shall be invalid if the compensation for recovery is greater than ten percent of the property at issue.
Except as provided in subsection 7 of this section, any person who enters into an agreement to recover or perform in a representative capacity to assist in the recovery of property reported or delivered to the treasurer under sections 447.500 to 447.595, for compensation, shall register with the treasurer prior to submitting a claim to the treasurer for recovery of such property.
No agreement entered into after a report is filed is valid if any person undertakes thereby to locate or reveal the whereabouts of property included in that report for a fee or compensation, unless the agreement discloses the nature and value of the property, is in writing, duly signed and acknowledged by the property owner.
Revised Statutes of Missouri, Chapter 447 (table of sections with last-amended dates) Missouri Revisor of Statutes (Joint Committee on Legislative Research) · revisor.mo.gov · page dated '3 Nov 2026'; section dates as listed · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Agreements to locate or reveal whereabouts of property, requirements for ... (8/28/2018)
70-9-825, MCA: Agreement to locate property Montana Legislature (Legislative Services Division) · mca.legmt.gov · Montana Code Annotated 2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned, is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the administrator.
An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property, is enforceable only if the agreement is in writing, clearly sets forth the nature of the property and the services to be rendered, is signed by the apparent owner, and states the value of the property before and after the fee or other compensation has been deducted.
70-9-825. Agreement to locate property.
Neb. Rev. Stat. 69-1301 to 69-1332 (print-friendly range: Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act and county sheriff sections) Nebraska Legislature · nebraskalegislature.gov · archived copy, captured Jan. 22, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

A professional finders' fee shall be limited to ten percent of the total dollar amount of the property presumed abandoned.
A finders' fee cannot be charged by commercial or professional locators of property presumed abandoned until twenty-four months after the names from the holders' reports have been published or officially disclosed.
To claim any such fee, the finder shall disclose to the owner the nature, location, and value of the property, provide notice of when such property was reported to the State Treasurer, and provide notice that the property may be claimed by the owner from the State Treasurer free of charge.
Abandoned property; Unclaimed Property Trust Fund; record; professional finder's fee; information withheld; when; transfers; Unclaimed Property Cash Fund; created; use; investment.
NRS Chapter 120A - Unclaimed Property (Uniform Act) Nevada Legislature, Legislative Counsel Bureau · leg.state.nv.us · archived copy, captured Dec. 14, 2025 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(a) If the property that is the subject of the agreement was paid or delivered to the Administrator less than 5 years before the signing of the agreement, 10 percent of the total value of the property.
An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned, is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the Administrator.
(a) Is in writing; (b) Clearly sets forth the nature of the property and the services to be rendered; (c) Sets forth the date on which the property was paid or delivered to the Administrator; (d) Sets forth a statement of the provisions of this section; (e) Is signed by the apparent owner; and (f) States the value of the property before and after the fee or other compensation has been deducted.
NRS 120A.740 Agreement to locate property; regulations.
RSA Chapter 471-C, Custody and Escheat of Unclaimed and Abandoned Property New Hampshire General Court · gc.nh.gov · archived copy, captured Jan. 6, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent an owner from asserting at any time that an agreement to locate property is based upon an excessive or unjust consideration.
All agreements to pay compensation to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property reported under RSA 471-C:19, made within 24 months after the date payment or delivery is made under RSA 471-C:21, are unenforceable.
An agreement to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of unclaimed property shall be valid only if the agreement is in writing and signed by the apparent owner, sets forth the nature and value of the property and the value of the apparent owner's share after the fee or compensation has been deducted, and contains the following disclosure:
471-C:39 Agreement to Locate, Deliver, or Recover Reported Property.
Unclaimed Property Statute (N.J.S.A. 46:30B-1 to -109), Treasury compilation "Updated thru P.L. 2015, c.8" New Jersey Department of the Treasury, Unclaimed Property Administration · nj.gov · Updated thru P.L. 2015, c.8 (file Last-Modified Jan. 25, 2019) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

Agreements entered into any time after such 24-month period are valid only if the fee or compensation agreed upon is not more than 20% of the value of the property recovered, the agreement is in writing, signed by the apparent owner, and clearly sets forth the nature and value of the property and the value of the apparent owner's share after the fee or compensation has been deducted.
All agreements to pay compensation to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property reported under this chapter, made within 24 months after the date that the property is paid or delivered to the administrator, are void and unenforceable.
However, nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent an owner from asserting at any time that an agreement to locate property is based upon an excessive or unjust consideration.
46:30B-106. Unenforceable agreements All agreements to pay compensation to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property reported under this chapter, made within 24 months after the date that the property is paid or delivered to the administrator, are void and unenforceable.
NMSA 1978 Chapter 7, Article 8A, Uniform Unclaimed Property Act (1995), Sections 7-8A-1 to 7-8A-31, with annotations New Mexico Compilation Commission (NMOneSource.com) · nmonesource.com · Current NMSA 1978 as published on NMOneSource (site last modified 11/02/2026); latest Article 8A amendment shown: Laws 2021, ch. 65 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

D. An agreement covered by this section which provides for compensation that is unconscionable is unenforceable except by the owner.
A. An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned, is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is forty-eight months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the administrator.
B. An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover or assist in the recovery of property, is enforceable only if the agreement is in writing, clearly sets forth the nature of the property and the services to be rendered, is signed by the apparent owner and states the value of the property before and after the fee or other compensation has been deducted.
Locators New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department · tax.newmexico.gov · May 21, 2025 (page modified) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

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In order to file a claim for abandoned property for a claimant, a locator must submit a disclosure agreement RPD-41343, Claim for Abandoned Property Disclosure of Agreement to Locate Property accompanied by a copy of the locator’s agreement with the claimant.
This subsection does not apply to an owner’s agreement with an attorney to file a claim as to identified property or contest the administrator’s denial of a claim (Section 7-8A-25 NMSA 1978).
Abandoned Property Law §1416 (consolidated text) New York State Senate (official consolidated laws) · nysenate.gov · archived copy, captured Dec. 18, 2025 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

No such agreement shall be valid if it provides for payment of a fee in excess of fifteen percent of the value of recoverable property.
A.3372 of 2025-26 (Dinowitz): finder agreement disclosure; quotes APL §1416(3)(d) and GBL §393-e New York State Assembly (nyassembly.gov bill search) · nyassembly.gov · bill introduced Jan. 27, 2025; re-referred to Consumer Affairs and Protection Jan. 7, 2026 (not enacted) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Any person, corporation, association, partnership or other entity which sells or offers to sell any abandoned property location services for abandoned property delivered to the state and held by the state comptroller shall, in every solicitation [and agreement] for such services, provide to the purchaser the following notice in a clear and conspicuous manner,
A.10239 of 2011-12 (Dinowitz), signed as Chapter 332 of the Laws of 2012: GBL §393-e and APL §1416 finder agreements (15% cap, notarized prescribed form) New York State Assembly (nyassembly.gov bill search) · nyassembly.gov · signed Aug. 1, 2012 (chap. 332); effective the 60th day after · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

3. No agreement [to locate property held by the comptroller] for abandoned property location services pursuant to this chapter shall be valid unless [that] such agreement: (a) is: (i) in such form as may be prescribed by the comptroller; (ii) in writing [and]; (iii) signed by the property owner; and (iv) witnessed and acknowledged by a notary public;
§ 2. Section 1416 of the abandoned property law, as added by chapter 173 of the laws of 1980, is amended to read as follows:
G.S. 116B-78 (statute text as posted by NCCash) North Carolina Department of State Treasurer (copy of N.C. General Statutes text) · nccash.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

Total fees and costs shall not exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) or twenty percent (20%) of the value of the property recovered, whichever is less.
The agreement was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was distributable to the owner and extending to a time that is 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the Treasurer.
Property Finder Information North Carolina Department of State Treasurer · nccash.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

Any person, acting individually or on behalf of a business entity, that charges a fee to locate unclaimed property for another, must register annually with the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer and follow all requirements of General Statute 116B-78 [https://www.nccash.gov/documents/gs-116b-78/open].
Beginning January 1, 2022, property finders must also be licensed with the North Carolina Private Protective Services Board as a private investigator – General Statute 116B-78.1.
N.D.C.C. chapter 47-30.2, Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act North Dakota Legislative Branch · legis.nd.gov · PDF created June 30, 2025 (after 2025 HB 1149); same file the program site links as /docs/ND_Revised_Uniform_UCP_Act.pdf · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

States the amount of the fee or other compensation to be paid, which may not be in excess of ten percent of the amount recovered;
An agreement by an apparent owner and another person, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the location, delivery, or recovery of property held by the administrator, is enforceable only if:
Subject to subdivision b, the agreement is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was presumed abandoned and ending twenty- four months after the payment or delivery; or
Heirfinder Guidelines ND Dept. of Trust Lands, Unclaimed Property Division · unclaimedproperty.nd.gov · not dated; read Nov. 3, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

All such agreements must be in compliance with N.D.C.C. §§ 47-30.2-68 and 47-30.2-69 and are void under N.D.C.C. § 47-30.2-69 if property has not been in the custody of the Division for at least 24 months or if the agreement contains a provision which applies to property that has not yet been abandoned and reported to the administrator.
Working with a Paid Professional Finder FAQs Ohio Department of Commerce · com.ohio.gov · March 20, 2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

Maximum fee: A finder may charge no more than 10% of the total amount claimed.
Ohio law requires anyone who locates, delivers, recovers, or assists in recovering unclaimed funds for another person for a fee to hold a valid Certificate of Registration from the Director of Commerce.
Submitting Finder Agreements for Review (Professional Finder Agreement Procedure) Ohio Division of Unclaimed Funds · dam.assets.ohio.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Registered finders are not permitted to initiate contact with the property owner until the unclaimed property has been with the Division for at least two years (ORC 169.13(A)(2)).
New Professional Finder Ohio Department of Commerce · com.ohio.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Section 169.13 | Agreements to pay a fee, compensation, commission, or other remuneration to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of unclaimed funds.
Oklahoma Statutes Title 60 (Property), Uniform Unclaimed Property Act, 60 O.S. §§651-688 Oklahoma Legislative Service Bureau · oklegislature.gov · compiled title; latest amendments shown Laws 2025, c. 421, eff. Nov. 1, 2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

shall contract for or receive from the claimant, for services, an amount that exceeds twenty-five percent (25%) of the value of the funds or property recovered.
6. “Claimant’s representative” means a person who has been hired by a claimant to file an unclaimed property claim on behalf of a claimant pursuant to a written agreement, including a duly executed power of attorney;
The agreement shall be in writing and signed by the claimant either by manual signature or electronic signature.
§60-674.1. Limitation on service fees for recovery of funds or property - Mineral proceeds as payment for services prohibited.
unclaimed.oregon.gov page texts (Claims FAQ, How to Claim steps, Contact Us, Licensed Finders, Forms, Unclaimed Property Law, Voluntary Disclosure, Reporting FAQ, Checks Without Claims, Foreclosure Surplus FAQ, Useful Links) Oregon State Treasury, Unclaimed Property Program · unclaimed.oregon.gov · archived copy, captured Oct. 7, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

When submitting a claim for a client, a finder must forward a copy of their current license with the initial Power of Attorney.
Once you have made contact with an individual who may be the owner of an unclaimed account, and have obtained a notarized power of attorney, please submit a written request for the appropriate claim form.
OAR 170-140 Unclaimed Property Claims/Finders Rules
The Fiscal Code, Act of Apr. 9, 1929, P.L. 343, No. 176, Article XIII.1 (72 P.S. § 1301.1 et seq.) Pennsylvania General Assembly · palegis.us · text displayed Nov. 3, 2026; latest Article XIII.1 amendment shown: July 17, 2024, P.L.910, No.81 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

clearly state the fee or compensation to be paid, which shall not exceed fifteen per centum of the value of the abandoned and unclaimed property;
All agreements or powers of attorney to recover or collect abandoned and unclaimed property contained in the reports filed under this article shall be valid and enforceable only if the agreements:
FAQs: Finders Pennsylvania Treasury Department · searchandclaimpa.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Under Pennsylvania law, no person may assist in the recovery of unclaimed property and receive compensation therefor unless the person has applied for and received a certificate of registration from the Treasurer.
Changes Important to Finders of Unclaimed Property Pennsylvania Treasury Department · searchandclaimpa.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Effective January 6, 2015, the Act added Sections 1301.11a and 1301.11b to the Fiscal Code, allowing for the regulating of "finders” who are now required to apply for registration, be approved, receive registration numbers, and remain subject to Treasury oversight to ensure compliance with the Act.
Ley de Bancos, Ley Núm. 55 de 12 de mayo de 1933 (OGP compilation, Sección 37(a)) OGP via OCIF (docs.pr.gov) · docs.pr.gov · Rev. 17 de agosto de 2020 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

La Oficina del Comisionado de Instituciones Financieras estará impedida de brindar información personal de los dueños de los bienes abandonados a personas que no presenten evidencia fehaciente de que son los verdaderos dueños, o los herederos o apoderados bonafide de los dueños conforme a la Ley.
Finders Rhode Island Office of the General Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division · findrimoney.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (6)

The aggregate fee, compensation, commission, or other remuneration agreed upon is not more than ten percent (10%) of the value of the property;
No. Compensation of any kind must not exceed ten percent.
All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under § 33-21.1-17, made within twenty-four (24) months after the date payment or delivery is made under § 33-21.1-19, are unenforceable.
The agreement clearly states that the property may be claimed by the apparent owner from the general treasurer free of charge;
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent an owner from asserting at any time that an agreement to locate property is based upon excessive or unjust consideration.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-21.1-35. Agreement to locate reported property.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-21.1-35 State of Rhode Island General Assembly (official statutes site) · webserver.rilegislature.gov · archived copy, captured Jan. 21, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under § 33-21.1-17, made within twenty-four (24) months after the date payment or delivery is made under § 33-21.1-19, are unenforceable.
S.C. Code Title 27, Chapter 18: Uniform Unclaimed Property Act South Carolina Legislature (scstatehouse.gov) · scstatehouse.gov · Code current through the 2026 Session (per sc-code-statmast); unofficial online version · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

It is unlawful for any person to seek or receive from any person or contract with any person for any fee or compensation for locating or purporting to locate any property which he knows has been reported or paid or delivered to the administrator pursuant to this chapter, in excess of fifteen percent of the value thereof returned to the owner.
All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under Section 27-18-180, made within twenty-four months after the date payment or delivery is made under Section 27-18-200 are unenforceable.
Any person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than the amount of the fee or charge he has sought or received or contracted for, nor more than ten times the amount, or imprisoned for not more than thirty days, or both.
SECTION 27-18-360. Restrictions on agreements to recover or assist in recovery of reported property; penalties.
SDCL 43-41B-36 South Dakota Legislature (Legislative Research Council) · sdlegislature.gov · current codified text as served Nov. 3, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

No agreement entered into after twenty-four months of the required date of delivery of the property by the holder to the state treasurer is valid if a person thereby undertakes to locate property included in a report for a fee or other compensation exceeding twenty-five percent of the value of the recoverable property unless the agreement is in writing and signed by the owner.
All agreements to pay compensation to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under § 43-41B-18, made within twelve months prior to the reporting and remitting of abandoned property accounts and within twenty-four months after the date payment or delivery is made under § 43-41B-20, are unenforceable.
Nothing in this section may be construed to prevent an owner from asserting at any time that an agreement to locate property is based upon excessive or unjust consideration.
43-41B-36. Agreements to locate reported property.
Public Chapter No. 457 (HB 420), Uniform Unclaimed Property Act Tennessee Secretary of State (Public Acts) · publications.tnsosfiles.com · approved 2017 (passed May 9, 2017); effective July 1, 2017 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (5)

(4) Does not provide for compensation of more than ten percent (10%) of the value of the recoverable property or fifty dollars ($50.00), whichever is greater; and
(b) An agreement by an apparent owner and a person, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the location, delivery, or recovery of property held by the treasurer, is enforceable only if the agreement:
(c) An agreement under this section is void and unenforceable if it is entered into within two (2) years from the date on which the property was paid or delivered by the holder to the treasurer.
(e) This section does not apply to an apparent owner's agreement with an attorney to pursue a claim for recovery of specifically identified property held by the treasurer or to contest the treasurer's denial of a claim for recovery of the property.
(a) An agreement with an owner whereby the owner is to pay a fee or other remuneration for locating, delivering, recovering, or assisting in the recovery of property that has not yet been reported to the treasurer under this part is enforceable only if the agreement:
Rules of the Tennessee Department of Treasury, Division of Unclaimed Property, Chapter Feb. 1, 1700, Regulations Governing the Uniform Unclaimed Property Act Tennessee Secretary of State, Official Compilation of Rules and Regulations · publications.tnsosfiles.com · March, 2019 (Revised); effective March 4, 2019 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

(a) Provides that, for any successful claim through the efforts of the Finder pursuant to the agreement, the Unclaimed Property Division will direct the full amount of payment to the Apparent Owner and not to the Finder; and
(3) A Finder shall submit evidence of the Finder’s required licensure with any claim filed with the Unclaimed Property Division.
1700-02-01-.08 FINDERS’ AGREEMENTS.
FAQs - About Unclaimed Property Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Their fees cannot be more than 10 percent of the value of the abandoned property recovered, including all expenses incurred.
Texas Property Code, Title 6, Chapter 74: Report, Delivery, and Claims Process Texas Legislature (Texas Constitution and Statutes, Texas Legislative Council) · statutes.capitol.texas.gov · statutes site states current through the 89th 2nd Called Session, 2025; read Nov. 3, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (3)

(a) A person who informs a potential claimant that the claimant may be entitled to claim property that is reportable to the comptroller under this chapter, that has been reported to the comptroller, or that is in the possession of the comptroller may not contract for or receive from the claimant for services an amount that exceeds 10 percent of the value of the property recovered, plus reasonable attorney's fees necessary to pursue the claim.
(3) states the amount or value of the property reasonably expected to be recovered, computed before and after a fee or other compensation has been deducted.
Sec. 74.507. ASSISTANCE OF CLAIMANT; FEE FOR RECOVERY.
Act No. 6999 (Bill No. 27-0161): Virgin Islands Uniform Unclaimed Property Act, 28 V.I.C. ch. 29 (scanned; manual transcription) Legislature of the Virgin Islands (published by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor) · ltg.gov.vi · passed March 19, 2008; approved April 12, 2008 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(d) An agreement covered by this section which provides for compensation that is unconscionable is unenforceable except by the owner.
(a) An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned is void and unenforceable if it was entered into during the period commencing on the date the property was presumed abandoned and extending to a time that is 24 months after the date the property is paid or delivered to the administrator.
(b) An agreement by an owner, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property is enforceable only if the agreement is in writing, clearly sets forth the nature of the property and the services to be rendered, is signed by the apparent owner, and states the value of the property before and after the fee or other compensation has been deducted.
§676. AGREEMENT TO LOCATE PROPERTY.
Utah Admin. Code R966-1, Unclaimed Property Act Rules Utah Office of Administrative Rules · adminrules.utah.gov · effective 09/09/2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Fees for discovering property that has been in the custody of the administrator for more than 24 months shall be limited to not more than 20% of the amount collected.
FAQ: Fee Finder Utah Office of State Treasurer · mycash.utah.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

A Fee Finder (Heir/Certified Finder) is a person that seeks to find Unclaimed Property and return it to rightful property owners (or heirs) for a fee.
Utah Code Title 67 Chapter 4a, Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act Utah Legislature · le.utah.gov · current on Nov. 3, 2026, includes 2026 General Session · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

Subject to Subsection (2) , an agreement under Section 67-4a-1301 is void if the agreement is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was paid or delivered by a holder to the administrator and ending 24 months after the payment or delivery.
Agreement to Locate Property of Apparent Owner Held by Administrator
27 V.S.A. Chapter 18, Unclaimed Property (full chapter) Vermont General Assembly (Vermont Statutes Online, unofficial copy of V.S.A.) · legislature.vermont.gov · includes actions of the 2025 session; read via Internet Archive capture April 29, 2026. 2026 amendments (Act 131: §§1492, 1543, 1553, 1557) are taken from Act 131 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(f) An agreement between an owner and an asset locator, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the recovery of property that is presumed abandoned and that provides for compensation that exceeds 10 percent of the value of the unclaimed property, shall be unenforceable.
(a) Subject to subsection (b) of this section, an agreement under section 1601 of this title is void if it is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was paid or delivered by a holder to the Administrator and ending 24 months after the payment or delivery.
In order to obtain and maintain registered status, all asset locators shall post a performance bond of not less than $10,000.00 to insure the Administrator against any fraudulent or mistaken claims that may arise as a result of an asset locator’s representation of an apparent owner.
§ 1604. Asset locators
Code of Virginia Title 55.1 Chapter 25, Virginia Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act (full chapter) Commonwealth of Virginia, Legislative Information System (Code of Virginia) · law.lis.virginia.gov · Code as published Nov. 3, 2026; includes 2026 c. 669 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

No agreement entered into after 36 months from the required date of delivery of the property by the holder to the administrator is valid if a person thereby undertakes to locate property included in a report for a fee or other compensation exceeding 10 percent of the value of the recoverable property.
It is unlawful for any person to seek or receive from another person or contract with another person for a fee or compensation for locating property that he knows has been reported or paid or delivered to the administrator pursuant to this chapter prior to 36 months after the date of delivery of the property by the holder to the administrator as required by this chapter.
The administrator need not recognize nor is the administrator bound by any terms of a purported power of attorney or assignment that may be presented as having been executed by a person as the purported owner, heir, legatee, or fiduciary of the estate of a deceased owner of such abandoned property.
§ 55.1-2542. Agreements to locate reported property; penalty.
Chapter 63.30 RCW – Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act Washington State Legislature · app.leg.wa.gov · current RCW as displayed Nov. 3, 2026; official PDF of the chapter "Certified on 7/15/2026"; latest amendments shown are 2025 c 29, none from 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

(2) An agreement under RCW 63.30.780 that provides for compensation in an amount that exceeds five percent of the value of the property reasonably expected to be recovered, is unenforceable.
(1) Is in a record that clearly states the nature of the property and the services to be provided; (2) Is signed by or on behalf of the apparent owner; and (3) States the amount or value of the property reasonably expected to be recovered, computed before and after a fee or other compensation to be paid to the person has been deducted.
(4) This section does not apply to an apparent owner's agreement with an attorney to pursue a claim for recovery of specifically identified property held by the administrator or to contest the administrator's denial of a claim for recovery of the property.
An agreement by an apparent owner and another person, the primary purpose of which is to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in the location, delivery, or recovery of property held by the administrator, is enforceable only if the agreement:
Heir Finder / Asset Locator – Consumer Information Washington State Department of Revenue · ucp.dor.wa.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (5)

No one may charge a fee greater than five percent for property reported to the state of Washington, and an agreement for such a fee can be declared void by the apparent owner or the administrator if the compensation exceeds five percent of the value of the property reasonably expected to be recovered (RCW 63.30.780 and RCW 63.30.790.)
Heir finders and asset locators help reunite owners with their property for a fee.
When filing a claim, provide a notarized affidavit signed by the unclaimed property owner authorizing the agent to act as the owner’s representative. A statement must be included on the affidavit that it is unlawful for any person to receive a fee or compensation on property received within 24 months of the holder (business) delivering the property to the Department of Revenue and that the owner is aware of such limitations.
The agent understands that the department will send funds directly to the owner and that the agent is responsible for collecting their fee from the owner.
This fee limit applies to all services conducted by the locator.
2025 Unclaimed Property Report (FY2025) Washington State Department of Revenue · ucp.dor.wa.gov · UCP0001 02/09/2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

The bill also reestablishes a firm 5% cap on finder’s fees, reinforcing the state’s commitment to preventing predatory practices in the unclaimed property process.
Laws of 2025, ch. 29 (SSB 5316), session law Washington State Legislature · lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov · Effective July 27, 2025; sections 8 and 10-12 January 1, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

by a holder to the administrator and ending 24 months after the
West Virginia Unclaimed Property: FAQs: Claiming Property West Virginia State Treasurer's Office, Unclaimed Property Division · wvunclaimedproperty.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

Also, our office does not direct unclaimed property owners to a third party. If you are contacted by an individual offering to find you unclaimed property for a fee, please contact our office.
Heir Finders or Locator Services - Guidance Document 100151 Wisconsin Department of Revenue · revenue.wi.gov · Nov. 4, 2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (4)

If you sign a contract with an heir finder or locator service, they cannot charge you a fee in excess of 10% of the actual value of the property recovered.
There is no license or registration requirement.
Note: The agreement is void if the property has been in the custody of DOR for less than 24 months.
This document provides statements or interpretations of the following laws and regulations enacted as of November 4, 2025: secs. 177.001, 177.0503, 177.0903, 177.1301, and 177.1302, Wis. Stats [https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/prefaces/toc].
Asset Finders Wyoming State Treasurer's Office · statetreasurer.wyo.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

No, Wyoming law does not set a limit on payment.
No, Wyoming law does not require finders be registered agents.
Wyoming Statutes Title 34, Chapter 24 - Uniform Unclaimed Property Act (W.S. 34-24-101 through 34-24-140) Wyoming Legislature (Legislative Service Office) · wyoleg.gov · PDF compiled May 8, 2026 (PDF creation date; HTTP Last-Modified Fri, 08 May 2026) · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (2)

An agreement entered into after the twenty-four (24) month period provided by subsection (a) of this section is enforceable only if the agreement is in writing.
All agreements from claimants to pay compensation to a third-party researcher to recover or assist in the recovery of property reported under W.S. 34-24-118, made within twenty-four (24) months after the date payment or delivery is made from the holder to the state of Wyoming under W.S. 34-24-120, are unenforceable.
Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act (2016), text with comments Uniform Law Commission · uniformlaws.org · 2016-07 · checked Nov. 3, 2026

Quoted text (1)

(a) Subject to subsection (b), an agreement under Section 1301 is void if it is entered into during the period beginning on the date the property was paid or delivered by a holder to the administrator and ending 24 months after the payment or delivery.