Florida Unclaimed Property: How to Search and Claim for Free

How to search for Florida unclaimed property

The official search is at portal.claimyourcashfl.gov/ClaimSearch.¹ The program's information pages are at claimyourcashfl.gov.³ You may see it called Claim Your Cash Florida (public name since Sept. 15, 2026; formerly Florida Treasure Hunt / FLTreasureHunt.gov).³

Which names and places to try: how to search well.

Fast-track and automatic payments

• Electronic claims of $2,000 or less: the law lets the Department verify identity another way instead of requiring a copy of photo ID or a notarized statement. The portal checks each claim for 'eClaim' or 'paperless' eligibility, and eligible claimants sign electronically. Separately, the Department may pay accounts of $2,000 or less with no claim after confirming the owner is living and the address is current (s. 717.124(8)).⁴

How to claim unclaimed property in Florida, step by step

Partly online. You search and start the claim online, but most claims are completed by mailing the signed form and documents. Some eligible claims can be filed fully online with an electronic signature.¹ Cost: Free: there is no fee to search or to claim directly from the state.⁶

1. Search the free database at ClaimYourCashFL.gov using every name that might be on the record: current, previous, maiden, married and business names, plus common variations.¹
2. Select your accounts and start a claim online. The system gives you a claim number: save it and use it whenever you contact the Division.¹
3. Enter your identity details. The system can ask for your name, mailing address, phone, email, driver license or government ID, date of birth, and SSN or EIN/TIN.⁸
4. Print the claim form the system generates. If you have no printer, you can ask for the form to be mailed to you.⁸
5. Complete and sign the form, and gather the documents your form lists.¹
6. Mail the signed form and all documents to the address printed on the claim form.¹
7. Your claim counts as filed only when the Division receives the signed form and all required documents. Creating a claim online or getting a claim number is not filing.¹
8. Check progress with the online Claim Status tool, using the claim number that starts with C (not the account number).⁹

• Notary: Not normally required. A notarized sworn statement (Form DFS-A4-2007) can replace the copy of photo ID; notarized affidavits are used when there is no ID or for small-estate claims.⁴
• Interest: No interest is paid on cash. If non-cash property earned dividends, interest or other increments before it was sold, the owner receives them (s. 717.121).¹
• Property of a minor: No minor-specific rule was found. The rule for guardianship assets requires the court-appointed guardian to file, with a court order certified within 1 year, and payment is made 'Guardian For' the ward.²
• If a claim is denied: Administrative hearing under ss. 120.569 and 120.57, F.S. The claimant must prove entitlement by a preponderance of the evidence. Venue is Tallahassee (Leon County), or remote video at the presiding officer's discretion.⁴

The general process is in our how to claim guide.

Documents you need, by situation

These are the official requirements. The claim form for a specific property can ask for more.

Claiming your own property

• Government-issued photo ID (driver license, state ID card, passport or military ID)¹
• Proof of your current mailing address¹
• Having the same name as the reported owner does not prove a claim on its own⁴
• Not accepted as proof: handwritten letters, letterhead, business cards, internet printouts and telephone directories¹
• Every claimant must send ID and sign the claim form¹
• No ID at all: a notarized Affidavit Attesting to Claimant's Identity (Form DFS-A4-1944), signed by people who personally know the claimant²
• Claims of $250 or less with no documents: a Claimant Affidavit (Form DFS-A4-2006) may be considered. By signing it you swear the claim is authentic and agree that the Department may give your name and address to anyone who later proves entitlement.²
• Address change after you file: send it in writing with a copy of your current government-issued ID, and include your claim number¹

A former address or a name change

• Documents linking you to the reported property, such as proof of the reported previous address, employer, financial institution or account number¹

The owner has died (estate)

• Small-estate route: if everything held for the deceased owner totals $20,000 or less and no probate is pending, beneficiaries can claim without a probate order. They file an Estate Affidavit (Form DFS-UP-1243) signed by all beneficiaries, plus the will if there was one. No partial payments are made. Otherwise probate records are required. An estate may claim only after the entitled heir or legatee has been located (s. 717.12405).⁴
• Deceased owner: certified death certificate, plus ID and signed claim forms from every heir, or from the personal representative if the estate is still open¹
• The death certificate must be certified as authentic by the issuing agency⁴

You are an heir

• Open estate: court records, certified by the clerk within 1 year of filing, showing the personal representative's authority²
• Closed estate: certified probate court order naming the beneficiaries and each one's share (or the probate documents that show this). A will on its own is never enough.²
• Heirs must also send documents connecting them to the deceased owner²
• Court documents: certified copy, plus certified copies of the pleadings filed in the 180 days before the claim form was signed⁴

A business or government agency

• Corporation: the claim must be signed by an officer or director shown on the last corporate filing, with a printout of officers and directors from the Florida Department of State site (or the state of incorporation)⁴
• Business accounts: documents proving the business owns the account (tax filings, bank statements, utility bills, etc.). Letterhead and business cards are not enough.²
• Dissolved corporation: the claim must say whether the corporation was ever a debtor in bankruptcy, with details or a PACER/CM-ECF search²
• Florida government entities (state agencies, counties, school districts, cities, special districts): the law allows a verification and direct-disbursement process⁴

Securities, safe deposit boxes and other cases

• Safe deposit box contents can be claimed until sold at auction, with documented proof that you are the person named on the box account¹⁰
• Cashier's check or stock certificate without the original: an indemnity bond equal to the claim's value may be required⁴
• Joint 'and' bank accounts: each person named must claim. 'Or' accounts: either person may claim the full amount.⁴
• Guardianship assets: the court-appointed guardian files, with a court order certified within 1 year; the check is made payable 'Guardian For' the ward²

See also: claiming for a deceased relative and the claim documents tool.

How long it takes, how you are paid and the deadline

Processing time

• No set timeframe: claims are handled in the order received, and incomplete documents are the most common cause of delay. Ask about status only if your claim was received on or before the processing date shown in Claim Status. By law the Department must decide a claim within 90 days after it receives the claim or your reply to its request for more information, whichever is later. That deadline is extended by 60 days in some cases.¹

How you are paid

Florida can pay electronically or by check.

• Paper state warrant (check), electronic funds transfer, or a stored-value product. Choose in writing within 5 business days of approval, or you will get a warrant. Securities are sold when possible; any that cannot be sold are transferred to your brokerage account or re-registered and mailed. Tangible items under $10,000 that a carrier can accept are shipped to you. Items worth $10,000 or more, or that a carrier cannot take, must be collected from the Department's Tallahassee office during business hours, either by a common carrier you arrange or in person with the award letter and photo ID.²

Deadline

Owners and heirs in Florida generally have no deadline, but the rule has exceptions.

• No time limit: the FAQ says there is no statute of limitations, so owners and heirs can claim at any time. DFS's own launch release says 'no deadline for most owners'. The statutory exception is US savings bonds, which the state may escheat by court action (s. 717.1382).¹

Contact the Florida unclaimed property office

When property becomes unclaimed: dormancy periods

In Florida most property is presumed abandoned after 5 years without owner contact.⁴ Wages move faster: 1 year.⁴ More on how this works: what happens after the dormancy period.

Other states: dormancy periods table.

• Minimum amounts: Credit balances, customer overpayments, security deposits and refunds under $10 may not be reported. Other items under $10 may be reported in aggregate, without owner details; owner details are required for items of $10 or more. A holder whose total is under $10 may file a zero-balance report. The holder's notice duty starts at $50, and the public website lists items of $10 or more (smaller amounts can still be claimed).⁴
• Gift cards: Gift certificates and credit memos are generally not reportable; the value belongs to the issuer. Exception: cards described in s. 501.95(2)(b), meaning those sold by a financial institution or money services business and redeemable at multiple unaffiliated merchants, must be reported. Separately, s. 501.95 bars expiration dates and post-sale fees on most Florida gift certificates.⁴
• Published lists of owners: No newspaper list. The Department must keep a searchable website listing owners of property worth $10 or more (smaller amounts can still be claimed). It must also make at least one direct notification attempt (e.g., a letter) for property worth $50 or more, tangible property and shares of stock. Newspaper, TV and internet listings count only as 'passive' notice.⁴

Finder fees and heir finders in Florida

The legal limit in Florida: 30% of the claimed amount: fees and costs under a recovery agreement, or the discount under a purchase agreement. If a recovery agreement charges more, the fee is cut to 30% and the balance goes to the claimant; a purchase claim over 30% is denied.⁴ That is the highest flat cap in our finder-fee comparison (shared with 1 other). You never need a finder: claiming directly is free.⁶

• Are finders allowed? Yes, but only through a 'claimant representative': a Florida Bar attorney, Florida CPA or Florida-licensed private investigator registered with the Department. Unregistered 'locators' may not charge to file or assist with claims (s. 717.1322(1)(j)).⁴
• Contract rules: The state's 'Abandoned Property Recovery Agreement' or 'Abandoned Property Purchase Agreement' form is the only agreement allowed, used without changes⁴ Fees can be owed or paid only after the claim is approved⁴ Any other engagement or fee agreement is void⁴ The recovery agreement cannot be made irrevocable or assign the property⁴ Required disclosures: total amount claimed, fee % and dollar fee, net to the claimant, account numbers, and the representative's name, contact details and license number⁴ Taking payment in advance of claim approval is a violation⁴ Purchase agreements: the seller can cancel within 15 business days without penalty; the price must be paid within 30 days; the agreement must say the owner can claim free from the Department's website; and the seller's signature must be notarized⁴ Safe deposit box contents and securities are delivered directly to the claimant, not the representative. For cash, the claimant receives the amount net of authorized fees, and the fee is paid to the representative's firm by EFT.⁴
• The law: ss. 717.135 (agreements, 30% cap), 717.1356 (purchase agreements), 717.1400 (registration), 717.1322 (enforcement), F.S.⁴ (read the text)

Before signing with a finder, read how finders work.

How to spot Florida unclaimed property scams

Florida's official search is on portal.claimyourcashfl.gov, a .gov address.¹

What Florida warns about

• The Department will never text you about your claim or about abandoned property⁶
• Look for the official DFS seal⁶
• Never pay anyone just to search for you¹
• Claims never expire, so 'act now or lose it' pressure is false and should be reported¹
• Hiring a recovery company is optional¹
• Report anyone asking you to sign a non-state agreement or misleading you about fees¹
• Online complaint form for claimant representatives and other solicitors: portal.claimyourcashfl.gov/…¹
• Registered firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by the state¹⁴
• Entering false information in the claim website can be a felony⁸

Unsure about a letter, text or call? Try the scam check or read how to spot a fake notice.

Florida unclaimed property in numbers

For businesses: reporting unclaimed property to Florida

• Report due: Before May 1 each year, covering property that became reportable during the previous calendar year (ending December 31). A weekend due date moves to Monday. Safe deposit box contents are delivered 120 days after the report due date.⁴
• Due diligence letters to owners: For property of $50 or more, send written notice by first-class mail (or by email if the owner chose email) 90 to 180 days before filing the report. For property over $1,000, also send a second notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, at least 60 days before filing. A signed return receipt counts as owner interest.⁴
• Where to report: portal.claimyourcashfl.gov/… (Holder Reporting Online System; a UPID is required for each report)¹⁵
• File format: Electronic only, through the Holder Reporting Online System. Fewer than 25 properties: manual entry or NAUPA Standard Format. 25 or more: NAUPA Standard Format required. Zero reports must also be filed online.¹
• Penalties: Late report: $10 per day, up to $500. Willful failure to report or remit: $500 per day up to $5,000, plus 25% of the unreported value. Interest of 12% a year on late property. Late safe-deposit shipments: $100, then $500 per 30 days (maximum $4,000 a year). Waivers are possible for good cause; no penalty applies to a late report that correctly shows nothing to report.⁴
• Voluntary disclosure: Voluntary disclosure program: no penalties or fines. It is open only to holders not under audit, not previously filing annual reports, and not contacted about an audit or self-audit. The holder submits a plan, estimation method, report and remittance (Rule 69G-20.050). Starting a VDA tolls the 10-year limitations period.²

New to this? See who must report. Other states' dates are in the holder reporting deadlines table.

Other rules specific to Florida

• Law: Chapter 717, Florida Statutes: 'Florida Disposition of Abandoned Personal Property Act' (renamed and substantially rewritten by ch. 2026-174, Laws of Florida, effective June 26, 2026). leg.state.fl.us/…⁴
• 2026 rebrand: 'Claim Your Cash Florida' (ClaimYourCashFL.gov) replaced 'Florida Treasure Hunt' (FLTreasureHunt.gov) on Sept. 15, 2026. The old URLs now redirect.³
• 2026 law rewrite: ch. 2026-174 (CS/CS/CS/SB 1452) took effect when the Governor signed it on June 26, 2026. It renamed 'unclaimed' to 'abandoned' property, renamed the act, changed several dormancy periods and due-diligence rules, created s. 717.1356 on purchase agreements, and added a 10-paid-claims-per-year minimum for claimant representatives.¹⁶
• The State acts only as custodian and never becomes the owner. Title may pass to the state only where the law expressly allows it (e.g., the savings bond escheat procedure).⁴
• Unclaimed cash beyond a $15 million claims reserve goes to the State School Fund (public education). Owners can still claim the full amount.¹
• The Department must decide a claim within 90 days after receiving it, or after the claimant's reply to a request for more information, whichever is later. The period is extended by 60 days for good cause, bankruptcy debtors, foreign addresses or claimants, or untranslated documents. A claim is treated as withdrawn if a request for information goes unanswered for 60 days.⁴
• No-claim payments: the Department may pay accounts of $2,000 or less directly to an owner after confirming the owner is living and the address is correct⁴
• For eligible electronically filed claims, the portal says you will receive an important message within 30 days, and asks you not to call during that review period⁸
• Monthly returns announced by DFS: over $66 million in September 2026 and $57 million in July 2026¹⁷
• $57 million returned in July 2026; Palm Beach County alone had over 1.5 million claimable accounts totaling over $548 million¹⁸
• Live, in-person auctions of safe deposit box contents are held around the state. A sale's proceeds are credited to the owner's account and stay claimable indefinitely. Bidders pay a refundable $100 deposit and a 12% buyer's premium, with no sales tax. No auctions were scheduled as of Nov. 3, 2026.¹⁰
• A will or trust found in an abandoned safe deposit box is copied on request for anyone who provides a certified death certificate of the testator or settlor⁴
• Firearms found in safe deposit boxes go to law enforcement; firearms with historical value may be sold to federal firearms licensees⁴
• Claimant representatives must file and get paid on at least 10 claims each calendar year or lose their registration (new in 2026)⁴
• Firm names may not suggest a government connection (e.g., 'Florida', 'state', 'division', 'department', 'government')⁴
• The public list of registered claimant representative firms showed 173 records on Nov. 3, 2026¹⁴
• Conflicting claims: the first complete claim wins. If an owner and a representative file complete claims on the same day, the owner wins.⁴
• Filing a false claim is a crime graded by value: a felony for anything over $250 (first-degree felony over $50,000)⁴
• Equity/securities: holders must send email (or mail) contact within 3 years of last owner interest if they don't mail annually, and must run commercial data matching to locate owners (new in 2026)⁴
• Insurers must compare policies against the Social Security Death Master File at least annually (before August 31) and may not charge beneficiaries search or claim fees⁴
• Purchases of property by asset purchasers from large businesses (agreements executed on or after June 26, 2026) require the full asset purchase agreement plus the seller's attestation that it knows the property can be recovered free⁴
• The Department mails official notification letters, which you can check against the database. A sample letter is published on the FAQ.¹
• Free holder education workshops; next listed: January 26, 2027, Ft. Lauderdale (registration ends January 21, 2027)²⁰
• Before ch. 2026-174, virtual currency was presumed abandoned after 5 years (now 7)²¹
• Before ch. 2026-174, stock was presumed abandoned 3 years after the last owner activity (now 5)²²
• Safe deposit box items are usually sent to the state about 3 years after the rent goes unpaid. The Division may auction them if they remain unclaimed 2 years after it receives them. You can claim an item before the sale and get it back, and after a sale the proceeds stay claimable forever.¹

Florida unclaimed property: questions people ask

Where do I search for Florida unclaimed property?

On the official search at portal.claimyourcashfl.gov.¹ Searching and claiming there is free.⁶

When is the Florida unclaimed property report due?

Before May 1 each year, covering property that became reportable during the previous calendar year (ending December 31).⁴ Details above.

Which law governs unclaimed property in Florida?

Chapter 717, Florida Statutes: 'Florida Disposition of Abandoned Personal Property Act' (renamed and substantially rewritten by ch. 2026-174, Laws of Florida, effective June 26, 2026). leg.state.fl.us/…⁴

What is the dormancy period for unclaimed property in Florida?

5 years for most property;⁴ other types differ (see the table).

What is the Florida unclaimed property phone number?

(850) 413-5555, or (888) 258-2253 from inside Florida.⁵

Where are the Florida unclaimed property claim forms?

No general blank claim form: the claim form is generated by the online system for the accounts you select (or mailed to you if you have no printer)²

How long does a Florida unclaimed property claim take?

No set timeframe: claims are handled in the order received, and incomplete documents are the most common cause of delay.¹ Details above.

How do I claim unclaimed property in Florida?

Partly online. You search and start the claim online, but most claims are completed by mailing the signed form and documents.¹ First step: Search the free database at ClaimYourCashFL.gov using every name that might be on the record: current, previous, maiden, married and business names, plus common variations.¹ All the steps.

Is it free to claim unclaimed property in Florida?

Free: there is no fee to search or to claim directly from the state⁶

How do I claim a deceased relative's unclaimed property in Florida?

Small-estate route: if everything held for the deceased owner totals $20,000 or less and no probate is pending, beneficiaries can claim without a probate order.⁴ Details above.

Is the Florida unclaimed property site legitimate?

Yes, if it is portal.claimyourcashfl.gov:¹ the program is run by the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Division of Unclaimed Property.⁷ What the program warns about.

Moved? Neighboring programs

• Alabama unclaimed property
• Georgia unclaimed property

See which state holds your property, or list every search with the multi-state checklist.

Sources

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

1. Frequently Asked Questions Florida Department of Financial Services · claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (26)

   The easiest way to find out is to search Florida’s official abandoned property database.

   Important: Creating a claim online does not complete the claims process.

   We process claims in the order they are received. As a result, we cannot provide an exact timeframe for when we will complete your claim.

   No. One of the most important facts about Florida’s Abandoned Property Program is that there is no statute of limitations on abandoned property claims.

   For the best results, search using all names that may be associated with the property, including current names, previous names, maiden names, married names, business names, and common name variations.

   If you initiate a claim, you will be assigned a claim number. Please save this number and use it in all future communications with the Division.

   Complete all required sections, sign the form, and gather the supporting documentation requested for your specific claim.

   Once your claim package is complete, mail the signed claim form and all required supporting documentation to the address provided on the claim form.

   A claim is not considered filed until you submit the signed claim form and all required supporting documentation, and the Division receives them.

   Florida law does not provide for interest to be paid on abandoned property claims beyond the amount originally reported and remitted to the State.

   A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state identification card, passport, or military ID

   Proof of your current mailing address

   Examples of unacceptable documentation are: handwritten letters, letterhead and business cards, printouts from the Internet and telephone directories.

   Note: Each claimant must submit identification and sign the claim form.

   For security purposes, all address changes must be submitted in writing and include a copy of your current government-issued ID.

   Documentation establishing your ownership or legal entitlement to the property, such as documentation connecting you to the reported property (e.g., a previous address, employer, financial institution, or account number).

   In addition, provide a certified death certificate for the owner, along with identification and signed claim forms for all heirs or the personal representative if the estate remains open.

   No. You should never pay someone simply to search for abandoned property on your behalf.

   It is not true. Florida has no statute of limitations on abandoned property.

   No. You can search ClaimYourCashFL.gov and file a claim directly with the State of Florida through the provided instructions at no cost. Hiring a private company is entirely optional.

   If a company or individual asks you to sign an agreement that differs from Florida’s authorized Abandoned Property Recovery Agreement, or if you believe you were misled regarding your rights, fees, or the claims process, you should contact the Division of Unclaimed Property.

   If you have a complaint about a claimant representative or an individual who contacted you regarding abandoned property, requested that you sign a recovery agreement, or charged fees related to a claim, please click here.

   Reports containing 25 or more properties must be submitted using the NAUPA Standard Format.

   Under Florida law, abandoned funds are deposited into the State School Fund, which supports public education.

   If you receive a letter from the Florida Department of Financial Services regarding abandoned property, click here to search our database of abandoned property accounts to verify and claim the account(s) referenced in our letter.

   If the property remains abandoned for two years after the Division receives it, the items may be sold through a public auction.

2. Chapter 69G-20, Florida Administrative Code (Unclaimed Property) - compiled rules PDF Florida Department of Financial Services · myfloridacfo.com · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (17)

   The person entitled to the unclaimed property can elect to receive payment by warrant, electronic fund transfer, or stored value product or account.

   For claims electronically submitted for $2,000 or less, the Department may use an identity authentication service in lieu of a copy of the driver’s license, government-issued identification, or notarized sworn statement of the claimant to verify the claimant’s identity, as authorized by Section 717.124(7), F.S.

   In lieu of filing a copy of a government issued photographic identification of the claimant with the claim, the claimant or the Claimant’s Representative may file Form DFS-A4-2007, Notarized Sworn Statement of the Claimant, which has been accurately completed in full, executed by the claimant and the notary.

   (b) The warrant will be made payable to “Guardian For” the ward.

   In the event that a claimant has not been issued any type of valid photographic identification issued by the United States or a foreign nation, a state or territory of the United States or foreign nation, or a political subdivision or agency thereof, a claimant or Claimant’s Representative may file Form DFS-A4-1944, Affidavit Attesting to Claimant’s Identity

   This section applies only if all of the unclaimed property held by the Department on behalf of the claimant for which entitlement has not been established has an aggregate value of $250 or less.

   The affidavit shall be submitted on Form DFS-UP-1243, Estate Affidavit, effective 08/25, which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-18383 or from the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Unclaimed Property, 200 East Gaines Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0358, [email protected]. No partial payments shall be made.

   1. Open Estates – Records, certified by the clerk of court within one (1) year of the date of filing the claim with the Department, reflecting the personal representative’s right to act for the estate of the apparent owner.

   2. Closed Estates – A certified copy of a probate court order, certified by the clerk of court identifying the beneficiaries and the proportional entitlement of each to the estate.

   (b) The claimant must provide appropriate documentation to connect the claimant to the deceased apparent owner.

   Letterhead and business cards alone will not be sufficient to meet the required burden of proof.

   A claim for an unclaimed business account of a dissolved corporation must indicate whether the dissolved corporation has ever been a debtor in bankruptcy.

   The claim must be filed by the court appointed guardian or Claimant’s Representative, who must provide a court order evidencing the guardian’s existing authority to act on behalf of the ward, certified by the clerk of court within one (1) year of filing the claim with the Department, along with the guardian’s name, address and social security number.

   Claims for unclaimed property in the custody of the Department shall be submitted to the Department on the claim forms generated by the Department’s Unclaimed Property Management Information System (UPMIS), together with identification and documentation proving the claimant’s or seller’s identity, ownership, and entitlement to the unclaimed property.

   (1) If the due date for filing the Report of Unclaimed Property prescribed under Section 717.117, F.S., falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the following Monday will be considered the due date.

   (2) No penalty shall be assessed on a late report that correctly reflects no property to be reported.

   (b) Penalties and fines are not assessed by the Department.

3. CFO Blaise Ingoglia Launches 'Claim Your Cash Florida' to Return More Abandoned Money to Floridians Florida Department of Financial Services · myfloridacfo.com · Sept. 15, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (7)

   No deadline for most owners to claim their property

   More than $3 billion in abandoned property is currently safeguarded by the State of Florida and waiting to be claimed.

   New official website: ClaimYourCashFL.gov

   New public-facing name and identity: Claim Your Cash Florida (No longer Florida Treasure Hunt)

   $800+ million returned to owners last fiscal year

   More than 4.6 million abandoned property records maintained and received each year

   Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia announced the launch of Claim Your Cash Florida, a new statewide public awareness initiative to connect even more Floridians with their abandoned property.

4. 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 (69)

   (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.

   If a claim is submitted electronically for $2,000 or less, the department may use a method of identity verification other than a copy of a valid driver license, other government-issued photographic identification, or a sworn notarized statement.

   In lieu of photographic identification, a notarized sworn statement by the claimant may be provided which affirms the claimant’s identity and states the claimant’s full name and address.

   Any person aggrieved by a decision of the department may petition for a hearing as provided in ss. 120.569 and 120.57.

   Having the same name as that reported to the department is not sufficient, in the absence of other evidence, to prove entitlement to abandoned property.

   The department may require an affidavit swearing to the authenticity of the claim, lack of documentation, and an agreement to allow the department to provide the name and address of the claimant to subsequent claimants coming forward with substantiated proof to claim the account.

   This section applies only if all of the abandoned property held by the department on behalf of the owner has an aggregate value of $20,000 or less and no probate proceeding is pending.

   Any person who claims entitlement to abandoned property by means of the death of one or more persons shall file a copy of the death certificate of the decedent or decedents that has been certified as being authentic by the issuing governmental agency.

   Any person who claims entitlement to abandoned property by reason of a court document shall file a certified copy of the court document with the department.

   A claim on behalf of a corporation must be made by an officer or director identified on the last corporate filing.

   Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the department may develop and implement a verification and disbursement process by which an account, after being received by the department and added to the abandoned property database, for which the apparent owner entity is:

   A claim for a cashier’s check or a stock certificate without the original instrument may require an indemnity bond equal to the value of the claim to be provided prior to issue of the stock or payment of the claim by the department.

   If an abandoned demand, savings, or checking account in a financial institution is reported as an “and” account in the name of two or more persons who are not beneficiaries, it is presumed that each person must claim the account in order for the claim to be approved by the department.

   Unless otherwise specified by law, the dormancy period is 5 years from the date the property becomes payable or distributable.

   717.115 Wages.—Unpaid wages, including wages represented by unpresented payroll checks, owing in the ordinary course of the holder’s business that have not been claimed by the apparent owner for more than 1 year after becoming payable are presumed abandoned.

   If a holder learns or receives confirmation of an apparent owner’s death, the property shall be presumed abandoned 2 years after the date of death, unless an authorized representative makes an affirmative demonstration of interest in the property before the expiration of the 2-year period.

   (1) Any demand, savings, or matured time deposit with a banking or financial organization, including deposits that are automatically renewable, and any funds paid toward the purchase of shares, a mutual investment certificate, or any other interest in a banking or financial organization is presumed abandoned unless the apparent owner or authorized representative has, within 5 years, engaged in any of the following activities:

   Any sum payable on a check, draft, or similar instrument, except those subject to ss. 717.104 and 717.115, on which a banking or financial organization is directly liable, including, but not limited to, a cashier’s check or a certified check, which has been outstanding for more than 5 years after it was payable or after its issuance if payable on demand, is presumed abandoned unless the apparent owner or authorized representative, within 5 years, has communicated in writing with the banking or financial organization concerning it or otherwise demonstrated a continued interest in the property in accordance with s. 717.102.

   (2) Subject to subsection (4), any sum payable on a money order or similar written instrument, other than a third party bank check, that has been outstanding for more than 7 years after its issuance is presumed abandoned unless the apparent owner or authorized representative, within 7 years, has demonstrated a continued interest in the property in accordance with s. 717.102.

   (1) Subject to subsection (4), any sum payable on a traveler’s check that has been outstanding for more than 15 years after its issuance is presumed abandoned unless the apparent owner or authorized representative, within 15 years, has demonstrated a continued interest in the property in accordance with s. 717.102.

   (1) Any virtual currency held or owing by a banking organization, corporation, custodian, exchange, or other entity engaged in virtual currency business activity is presumed unclaimed unless the owner, within 7 years, has communicated in writing with the banking organization, corporation, custodian, exchange, or other entity engaged in virtual currency business activity concerning the virtual currency or otherwise indicated an interest as evidenced by a memorandum or other record on file with the banking organization, corporation, custodian, exchange, or other entity engaged in virtual currency business activity.

   Funds held or owing under any life or endowment insurance policy or annuity contract which has matured or terminated are presumed abandoned if unclaimed for more than 5 years after the date of death of the insured, the annuitant, or the retained asset account holder, but property described in paragraph (3)(d) is presumed abandoned if such property is not claimed for more than 2 years.

   Property distributable in the course of a demutualization, rehabilitation, or related reorganization of an insurance company is deemed abandoned 2 years after the date the property is first distributable if, at the time of the first distribution, the last known address of the apparent owner on the books and records of the holder is known to be incorrect or the distribution or statements are returned by the post office as undeliverable; and the apparent owner or authorized representative has not communicated in writing with the holder or its agent regarding the interest or otherwise communicated with the holder regarding the interest as evidenced by a memorandum or other record on file with the holder or its agent.

   717.108 Deposits held by utilities.—Any deposit, including any interest thereon, made by a subscriber with a utility to secure payment or any sum paid in advance for utility services to be furnished, less any lawful charges, that remains unclaimed by the apparent owner for more than 1 year after termination of the services for which the deposit or advance payment was made is presumed abandoned.

   717.109 Refunds held by business associations.—Except as otherwise provided by law, any sum that a business association has been ordered to refund by a court or administrative agency which has been unclaimed by the apparent owner for more than 1 year after it became payable in accordance with the final determination or order providing for the refund, regardless of whether the final determination or order requires any person entitled to a refund to make a claim for it, is presumed abandoned.

   1. Three years after the date a communication, other than communications required by s. 717.117, sent by the holder by first-class United States mail to the apparent owner is returned to the holder undelivered by the United States Postal Service.

   2. Five years after the most recent of any account activity or communication initiated by the apparent owner or authorized representative which demonstrates continued interest in the account, as recorded and maintained by the holder.

   3. Two years after the date of the death of the apparent owner, as evidenced by:

   1. Ten years after the owner’s most recent indication of interest in the property; or

   (4) Any dividend, profit, distribution, interest redemption, payment on principal, or other sum held or owing by a business association for or to a shareholder, certificateholder, member, bondholder, or other security holder, who has not claimed such amount or corresponded in writing with the business association concerning such amount, within 5 years after the date prescribed for payment or delivery, is presumed abandoned.

   (e) Matured or redeemed debt is presumed abandoned 5 years after the date of maturity or redemption.

   717.111 Property of business associations held in course of dissolution.—All intangible property distributable in the course of a voluntary or involuntary dissolution of a business association which is not claimed by the apparent owner for more than 6 months after the date specified for final distribution is presumed abandoned.

   (1) All intangible property and any income or increment thereon held in a fiduciary capacity for the benefit of another person, including property held by an attorney in fact or an agent, except as provided in ss. 717.1125 and 733.816, is presumed abandoned unless the apparent owner has within 5 years after it has become payable or distributable increased or decreased the principal, accepted payment of principal or income, communicated in writing concerning the property, or otherwise indicated an interest as evidenced by a memorandum or other record on file with the fiduciary.

   (5) All intangible property, and any income or increment thereon, issued by a government or governmental subdivision or agency, public corporation, or public authority and held in an agency capacity for the governmental subdivision, agency, public corporation, or public authority for the benefit of the owner of record is presumed abandoned unless the apparent owner has, within 1 year after such property has become payable or distributable, increased or decreased the principal, accepted payment of the principal or income, communicated concerning the property, or otherwise indicated an interest in the property as evidenced by a memorandum or other record on file with the fiduciary.

   717.1125 Property held by fiduciaries under trust instruments.—All intangible property and any income or increment thereon held in a fiduciary capacity for the benefit of another person under a trust instrument is presumed abandoned unless the apparent owner has, within 2 years after it has become payable or distributable, increased or decreased the principal, accepted payment of principal or income, communicated concerning the property, or otherwise indicated an interest as evidenced by a memorandum or other record on file with the fiduciary.

   717.113 Property held by courts and public agencies.—All intangible property held for the apparent owner by any court, government or governmental subdivision or agency, public corporation, or public authority that has not been claimed by the apparent owner for more than 1 year after it became payable or distributable is presumed abandoned.

   717.116 Contents of safe-deposit box or other safekeeping repository.—All tangible and intangible property held by a banking or financial organization in a safe-deposit box or any other safekeeping repository in this state in the ordinary course of the holder’s business, and proceeds resulting from the sale of the property permitted by law, that has not been claimed by the apparent owner or authorized representative for more than 3 years after the lease or rental period on the box or other repository has expired are presumed abandoned.

   (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a United States savings bond in possession of the department or registered to a person with a last known address in the state, including a bond that is lost, stolen, or destroyed, is presumed abandoned 5 years after the bond reaches maturity and no longer earns interest and shall be reported and remitted to the department by the financial institution or other holder in accordance with ss. 717.117(5) and (11) and 717.119, if the department is not in possession of the bond.

   (d) Unmatured or unredeemed debt, other than a bearer bond or an original issue discount bond, is presumed abandoned 5 years after the date of the most recent interest payment unclaimed by the owner.

   (7) Credit balances, customer overpayments, security deposits, and refunds having a value of less than $10 may not be reported as abandoned property.

   Items of value of less than $10 each may be reported in the aggregate.

   717.1045 Gift certificates and similar credit items.—Notwithstanding s. 717.117, an unredeemed gift certificate or credit memo as defined in s. 501.95 is not required to be reported as abandoned property.

   The department shall maintain a publicly accessible, electronically searchable website that includes the names of apparent owners of abandoned property reported to the department and instructions for filing a claim. The website must list property valued at $10 or more and provide instructions for filing a claim.

   (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.

   (5) Fees and costs may be owed or paid to, or received by, a claimant representative only after a filed claim has been approved and if the 1claimant representative used an agreement authorized by this section.

   Any engagement, authorization, recovery, or fee agreement that is not authorized by this section is void.

   (7) The Abandoned Property Recovery Agreement may not contain language that makes the agreement irrevocable or that creates an assignment of any portion of abandoned property held by the department.

   (2) The Abandoned Property Recovery Agreement and the Abandoned Property Purchase Agreement must include and disclose all of the following:

   (l) Receipt or solicitation of consideration to be paid in advance of the approval of a claim under this chapter.

   (2) A seller may cancel a purchase agreement without penalty or obligation within 15 business days after the date on which the agreement was executed.

   The contents of a safe-deposit box or shares of securities must be delivered directly to the claimant.

   717.135 Recovery agreements and purchase agreements for claims filed by a claimant representative; fees and costs or total net gain.—

   (11) The report must be filed before May 1 of each year. The report applies to the preceding calendar year.

   At least 90 days, but not more than 180 days, before filing the report required by this section, a holder in possession of presumed abandoned property shall send written notice by first-class United States mail to the apparent owner’s last known address as shown in the holder’s records or from other available sources, or by e-mail if the apparent owner has elected for e-mail delivery, informing the apparent owner that the holder is in possession of property subject to this chapter, provided that the holder’s records contain a mailing or e-mail address for the apparent owner which is not known by the holder to be inaccurate.

   The department may impose and collect a penalty of $10 per day up to a maximum of $500 for the failure to timely report, if an extension was not provided or if the holder of the property failed to include in a report information required by this chapter which was in the holder’s possession at the time of reporting.

   717.001 Short title.—This chapter may be cited as the “Florida Disposition of Abandoned Personal Property Act.”

   It is the intent of the Legislature that property reported under this chapter remains the property of the owner and that the State of Florida acts solely as a custodian, not as the owner, of such property.

   Within 90 days after receipt of the claim, or the response of the claimant or the claimant representative to the department’s request for additional information, whichever is later, the department shall determine each claim.

   (8) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the department may develop and implement an identification verification and disbursement process by which an account valued at $2,000 or less, after being received by the department and added to the abandoned property database, may be disbursed to an apparent owner after the department has verified that the apparent owner is living and that the apparent owner’s current address is correct.

   (e) If a will or trust instrument is included among the contents of an abandoned safe-deposit box or other safekeeping repository delivered to the department, the department must provide a copy of the will, trust, and any codicils or amendments to such will or trust instrument, upon request, to anyone who provides the department with a certified copy of the death certificate or another government-certified record evidencing the death of the testator or settlor.

   (b) Any firearm or ammunition found in an abandoned safe-deposit box or any other safekeeping repository shall be delivered by the holder to a law enforcement agency for property handling or disposal pursuant to s. 705.103(2)(b).

   (7) To maintain active registration under this section, a claimant representative must file and obtain payment on at least 10 claims per calendar year following the date of initial registration.

   Names that might lead another person to conclude that the firm or employer is affiliated or associated with the United States, or an agency thereof, or a state or an agency or political subdivision of a state, include, but are not limited to, the words United States, Florida, state, bureau, division, department, or government.

   (b) If a claimant’s claim and a claimant representative’s claim for the recovery of property are received by the department on the same day and both claims are complete, to the claimant.

   (a) Greater than $50,000, commits a felony of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084;

   (a) For purposes of this subsection, a holder must perform data matching of owner records maintained in its database against commercially available third-party data comparison sources to identify updated owner address information and indicators of deceased status.

   The comparisons must be made on at least an annual basis before August 31 of each year.

   (f) The requirements of this subsection apply only to claims filed based on asset purchase agreements executed on or after June 26, 2026.

5. Sample owner notification letter Florida Department of Financial Services · claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (1)

   TELEPHONE NUMBERS: (850)-413-5555 or 888-258-2253 (Inside Florida)

6. Claim Your Cash FL (home) Florida Department of Financial Services · claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (4)

   There is never a fee to search for or claim your cash.

   Protect your personal and financial information from phishing scams. The Department will not contact you by text message concerning your claim.

   Always look for the official Florida Department of Financial Services seal.

   Approximately 1 in 5 Floridians have abandoned property.

7. About Claim Your Cash Florida Florida Department of Financial Services · claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (2)

   Claim Your Cash Florida is a public awareness initiative for Florida’s long-standing abandoned property program, administered by the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Division of Unclaimed Property, Section 20.121, Fla. Stat. (2026).

   Led by Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, the Florida Department of Financial Services serves as the state’s chief fiscal agency, protecting consumers, safeguarding public resources, promoting financial accountability, and overseeing programs that serve millions of Floridians.

8. Abandoned Property Search / claim application (app text) Florida Department of Financial Services · portal.claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (5)

   By clicking "I Agree" below, I intend that the symbol "/s/" be adopted by me as a manifestation of my electronic signature in the electronic record to be used to present my claim.

   Before you generate a claim form, please be advised that under the Florida Disposition of Abandoned Property Act, chapter 717, Florida Statutes, claimants must prove their entitlement to abandoned property by a preponderance of the evidence.

   Click here if you do not have a printer. The claim form will be mailed to you. When received please follow the instructions provided above.

   Engaging in a scheme to defraud using such communications is a felony offense, with penalities ranging from a third-degree felony for property valued under $20,000, to a first-degree felony for property valued at $50,000 or more.

   during which time your claim will be reviewed. Please do not contact our office about your claim during this period, as this will delay the review process.

9. Check claim status Florida Department of Financial Services · portal.claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (2)

   To successfully check the status of your claim, use only the claim number starting with a C as shown in the upper right portion of your claim form.

   Email: [email protected]

10. State of Florida Unclaimed Property Auction Florida Department of Financial Services · portal.claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (2)

    You can claim it by filing a claim and providing documented proof that you are the same individual whose name is on the safe deposit box account.

    Sales taxes are not charged on any purchases. However, a 12% "buyer's premium" is added to the final sale price of any lot.

11. Contact Florida Department of Financial Services · claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Post Office Box 8599, Tallahassee, FL 32314-8599

12. Reporting Instructions Manual, Form DFS-P1-0001 Florida Department of Financial Services · myfloridacfo.com · revised 08/25 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Gift Certificates/Cards 5 MS12 717.1045(4)

13. s. 501.95, F.S., Gift certificates and credit memos The Florida Legislature · leg.state.fl.us · 2026 Florida Statutes · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (2)

    (2)1(a) A gift certificate purchased or credit memo issued in this state may not have an expiration date, expiration period, or any type of postsale charge or fee imposed on the gift certificate or credit memo, including, but not limited to, service charges, dormancy fees, account maintenance fees, or cash-out fees.

    (b) Paragraph (a) does not apply to a gift certificate or credit memo sold or issued by a financial institution, as defined in s. 655.005, or by a money services business, as defined in s. 560.103, if the gift certificate or credit memo is redeemable by multiple unaffiliated merchants.

14. Registered claimant representatives (public list) Florida Department of Financial Services · portal.claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (2)

    Beyond their registration, they are not affiliated with, or endorsed by the State of Florida, the Florida Department of Financial Services or the Division of Unclaimed Property.

    Records Available Are: 173

15. Holder Reporting (Report/Remit Abandoned Property) Florida Department of Financial Services · portal.claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    All abandoned property reports MUST be filed through the Holder Reporting Online System, including zero reports.

16. Chapter 2026-174, Laws of Florida (CS/CS/CS/SB 1452) Florida Department of State / Laws of Florida · laws.flrules.org · approved and effective June 26, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Approved by the Governor June 26, 2026.

17. CFO Blaise Ingoglia Returns Abandoned Money to State University and Colleges Following the Launch of 'Claim Your Cash Florida' Florida Department of Financial Services · myfloridacfo.com · Oct. 7, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    This new statewide public awareness initiative, which connects Floridians with their abandoned property, returned over $66 million to Floridians in September.

18. CFO Blaise Ingoglia Announces $57 Million Returned in Unclaimed Property in July Florida Department of Financial Services · myfloridacfo.com · Aug. 13, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Palm Beach still has over 1.5 million claimable accounts totaling over $548 million waiting to be claimed.

19. 2025 Florida Statutes s. 717.1400 Registration (superseded) The Florida Senate · flsenate.gov · 2025 Florida Statutes (superseded) · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    (7) The licensing and other requirements of this section must be maintained as a condition of registration with the department.

20. Calendar of Events Florida Department of Financial Services · portal.claimyourcashfl.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Holder Education Workshop January 26, 2027 January 21, 2027 Ft. Lauderdale

21. s. 717.1065, F.S. (2025), Virtual currency The Florida Senate · flsenate.gov · 2025 Florida Statutes (superseded) · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    within 5 years

22. s. 717.1101, F.S. (2025), Unclaimed equity and debt of business associations The Florida Senate · flsenate.gov · 2025 Florida Statutes (superseded) · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    1. Three years after the most recent of any owner-generated activity or communication related to the account, as recorded and maintained in the holder’s database and records systems sufficient enough to demonstrate the owner’s continued awareness or interest in the property;