Texas Unclaimed Property: How to Search and Claim for Free

How to search for Texas unclaimed property

The official search is at claimittexas.gov/app/claim-search.¹

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

Fast-track and automatic payments

• Statute lets the Comptroller pay a reported owner without a claim filing if the property is under $5,000 and the Comptroller reasonably believes the person is entitled. ClaimItTexas.gov does not describe a public no-paperwork program; it says documentation is needed only when the confirmation email/letter asks for it.⁹

Texas' records can also be searched through MissingMoney.com.¹⁰

Property the state program does not hold

These official bodies keep their own records, searched separately:

• Local government unclaimed money funds (Property Code ch. 76): Counties, cities, school districts and opted-in junior colleges keep abandoned items of $100 or less and run their own claims through their treasurer (or designated officer). Items over $100 go to the Comptroller. Claims for these items are filed with that local treasurer, not ClaimItTexas.⁷
• Claims against local treasurer: Statutory claim filing with the local treasurer¹¹
• Juror checks and property tax refunds: ClaimItTexas directs people to County Clerks, County Tax Assessors, or County Treasurers (varies by county)¹²
• Mineral interests not reported to the state: County Clerk or Texas Railroad Commission ((877) 228-5740 with a lease number)¹³
• Teacher Retirement System member contributions; Attorney General Victims Restitution Fund: Listed on ClaimItTexas's Finding Money page as held elsewhere¹²
• Local claims: costs and appeals: Publication and postage costs are deducted from local payments, but no administration or service charges. Appeal is by suit against the holder in a district court in the county where the property is located, before the 61st day after the decision.¹¹
• Money redirected by cooperatives and telephone companies: Claims for money sent to these funds are filed with the cooperative or telephone company that delivered it, not with ClaimItTexas.⁹

How to claim unclaimed property in Texas, step by step

Claims can be filed online on the official site.² Cost: Free.⁵

1. Search by last or business name (and first name); narrow by city, or enter the Property ID from an owner notice.¹
2. Try other name variants (nicknames, misspellings, maiden name).¹⁴
3. Click CLAIM on each property, then CONTINUE TO FILE CLAIM.¹
4. Enter claimant details, current mailing address, email, and your relationship to the owner for each property.¹⁵
5. Submit and save the Claim ID.¹⁵
6. If the confirmation email/letter asks for documents, send at minimum the signed claim form and photo ID, plus any listed items.²
7. Upload documents online (PDF, TIF, PNG or JPG, max 10MB each) or mail them to the Claims Section.¹⁶
8. Track status with the Claim ID.¹⁷

• Notary: Required for the Affidavit of Heirship (signed before a notary). Whether the standard claim form must be notarized is not stated on the public pages; the claim form is generated per claim.¹⁸
• Property of a minor: Parent or legal guardian of a minor child (or of an adult adjudged incompetent) may claim⁹
• If a claim is denied: Appeal by suing the state in district court in Travis County before the 61st day after the decision; if no decision within 90 days of filing, after certified-mail notice and 60 more days; within 1 year of filing. Trial de novo.⁹

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

• All claims (minimum): signed claim form and photo identification²
• All claims (rule): name, mailing address, SSN or EIN (or statement of none) of each claimant, and the property ID of each property claimed¹⁹
• Individual - which documents: listed on the claim form attachment; more may be requested²
• Any situation (official tool): The FAQ links an interactive tool for which documents may be requested: surveymonkey.com/r/RJC6F6M. It is hosted on SurveyMonkey.²⁰

The owner has died (estate)

• Heirs claim through statutory order (74.501(d)) with TAC 13.9 thresholds: affidavit of heirship up to $5,000; recorded affidavit $5,000-$10,000; small estate affidavit $10,000-$75,000; court heirship determination above $75,000. Independent administrators qualify only if appointed within 4 years of death. Stock is split and registered to each heir.⁹
• Deceased owner with will: will probated or filed as muniment of title; or executor with current letters testamentary; or an unprobated will if under $10,000 and the beneficiaries are the same people who would inherit without a will⁹
• Where to get estate documents: probated wills, letters testamentary/administration/guardianship, muniment of title, filed affidavits of heirship from the County Clerk; death certificates from the County Clerk or Texas Bureau of Vital Statistics¹³

You are an heir

• Heir, claim of $5,000 or less: affidavit of heirship from two disinterested witnesses²¹
• Heir, claim over $5,000 up to $10,000: affidavit of heirship from two disinterested witnesses, recorded in the county where the decedent died or resided²¹
• Heir, claim over $10,000 up to $75,000: small estate affidavit substantially complying with Estates Code ch. 205²¹
• Heir, claim over $75,000: judicial determination of heirship²¹
• Heir (waiver): The Comptroller may waive the heirship documents above and may ask for other documents instead²¹

A business or government agency

• Business (active corporation): claim by the president or board chair, or anyone with legal authority to act for the corporation⁹
• Dissolved corporation: sole surviving shareholder, surviving shareholders pro rata, bankruptcy trustee, or court-ordered receiver⁹

Securities, safe deposit boxes and other cases

• Originals: send photocopies unless originals requested; originals are not returned; use certified mail for originals²⁰
• Power of attorney: not accepted, except a durable power of attorney for a medically incapacitated person, with a physician's statement²²
• Earnest money (buyer and seller both listed): consent of both parties, or a small claims court judgment if the other party cannot be found²³
• Mineral proceeds purchaser: documentation showing the transfer was executed by the reported owner or their legal agent²⁴
• Safe deposit box: a street mailing address (no P.O. box, no international shipping) for returned contents²⁰
• Securities: returned via DRS when unsold; sale proceeds if sold²⁰
• Durable power of attorney (extra): The Comptroller may also require an agent's certification substantially complying with Estates Code 751.203²²
• Someone helping a claimant: Limited Authorization form (53-126 individual, 53-125 business). It lets a named person or entity receive and answer document requests for that claim only. It is not a power of attorney.²⁵

Not listed in the official sources we checked: a former address or a name change. The claim form shows what to send.

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

• Owner claims: 1 month; Heir, guardian, estate, executor, trust and business claims: 11 months; Basis: from date documents were received⁴

How you are paid

Texas pays by check and does not offer direct deposit, so keep the mailing address on your claim current.

• Paper check by USPS mail only; no direct deposit or wire. Checks can be mailed outside the US. Shares returned via DRS when not yet sold.³

Deadline

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

• No time limit; funds are held indefinitely (FAQ). The Comptroller's press releases say there is "generally" no statute of limitations.⁵

Contact the Texas unclaimed property office

When property becomes unclaimed: dormancy periods

In Texas most property is presumed abandoned after 3 years without owner contact.²⁷ Wages move faster: 1 year.²⁷ More on how this works: what happens after the dormancy period.

Other states: dormancy periods table.

• Minimum amounts: Holders may report items under $25 in aggregate without owner details. The online search does not show properties under $25. The Comptroller need not publish items under $100.⁹
• Gift cards: Stored value cards are presumed abandoned at the earliest of: the expiration date; 3 years after issue or last use/reload; or 1 year if the value represents wages. No fees may be charged after the presumption. Cards sold without recording owner name and address are treated as having the Comptroller's Austin address. 5% of collected card money goes to grants under Education Code ch. 56, subch. M.²⁷
• Published lists of owners: The Comptroller must notify each reported owner in the calendar year after the report, by any efficient method, in the county of the owner's last address (or the holder's county). Items under $100 need not be published. The Comptroller also keeps a yearly alphabetical owner list open for public inspection.⁹

Finder fees and heir finders in Texas

The legal limit in Texas: 10% of the value recovered, plus reasonable attorney's fees needed to pursue the claim (statute 74.507). The Comptroller's FAQ says the 10% includes all expenses. For mineral proceeds, the fee cannot include a share of the minerals, production payments or royalties. Local (ch. 76) property: 10% cap, and 76.506 has no attorney's-fee add-on.⁵ Among the flat caps in our finder-fee comparison, 1 is lower and 11 are higher. You never need a finder: claiming directly is free.⁵

• Are finders allowed? Yes.⁹
• Contract rules: 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. A finder paid a percentage may not file or receive a claim form on the claimant's behalf. The Comptroller's FAQ says finders must be licensed by the DPS Private Security Bureau. Section 74.507 sets no waiting period.⁹
• The law: Tex. Prop. Code §74.507 (state-held property); §76.506 (property held by local treasurers)⁹ (read the text)

Before signing with a finder, read how finders work.

How to spot Texas unclaimed property scams

Texas' official search is on claimittexas.gov, a .gov address.¹

What Texas warns about

• The Comptroller never texts or calls asking for online banking credentials, secure access codes, or other personal information. If you get such a call, hang up.³⁰
• You don't need to sign with a private company to get your money.⁵
• Companies saying your funds 'escheated' to the state just mean the funds were reported. The state holds them until the owner proves ownership.⁵

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

Texas unclaimed property in numbers

For businesses: reporting unclaimed property to Texas

• Report due: July 1 annually, covering property presumed abandoned as of March 1 (report year March 2 - March 1). Life insurance proceeds are also due July 1 since HB 1514 (2021). If July 1 falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date is the next business day.⁹
• Due diligence letters to owners: For property over $250, mail or email a written notice to the owner's last known address no later than 60 days before delivery; the Comptroller's guidelines say "by May 1". The notice must say the holder has the property and may have to deliver it to the Comptroller by July 1 if unclaimed. Also notify any designated representative. Postage may be charged against the property. No notice is needed if no address is on record, or if qualifying notice was already given under other law.⁹
• Where to report: claimittexas.gov/app/submit-a-report (NAUPA file upload, Manual Online Reporting at claimittexas.gov/mor, negative reports)³²
• File format: NAUPA2 electronic format via the secure file transfer portal (max 250 MB), or Manual Online Reporting for small reports. No CDs or physical media. A negative (zero) report is required from holders with nothing to report.³³
• Penalties: Late payment/delivery: 10% annual interest, plus a 5% penalty, plus another 5% if not delivered before the 31st day after the due date. Local government entities acting officially are exempt from the 5% penalties and the interest. Civil penalty up to $100/day for failing to pay, deliver or report. Wilful violation is a Class B misdemeanor. Rejected reports not corrected within 30 days may face a daily penalty.⁹
• Voluntary disclosure: VDA available: send a written request (company, contact, FEIN, address, email, estimated remittance, any prior audit contact) to [email protected] or Holder Reporting Section, P.O. Box 12247, Austin, TX 78711-2247. The Comptroller may waive penalty and interest for good-faith compliance (74.707). Questions: (800) 321-2274, option 2.³⁴

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

Other rules specific to Texas

• Law: Texas Property Code, Title 6 (Chapters 71-77); claims rules 34 Tex. Admin. Code ch. 13. statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PR/htm/PR.74.htm⁷
• Some claims (often heir, estate and business claims) need original documents and can't be uploaded. Send originals by certified mail only when asked, and keep copies.¹⁶
• The online search does not show properties under $25. Use the Search Request form to have the Research Department search.³⁵
• A $0 value in search results means a safe deposit box, stock or bond, not an empty property.²⁰
• Safe deposit box items are usually auctioned on GovDeals (seller 'txunclaimedproperty') after about a year; significant papers are kept 5 years. Auction proceeds can be claimed at any time.²⁰
• Military awards and decorations are never sold or destroyed. They go to the Texas military forces, which search for the recipient or next of kin.⁹
• If the Comptroller cannot prove ownership of a claimed property, it notifies the claimant and keeps listing the property for future claims.³⁶
• Oil and gas: Texas cut mineral-proceeds dormancy from 7 to 3 years in 1985, so almost no unclaimed mineral proceeds arrived before 1986. Since report year 2016, reports include well and lease details.¹³
• Holders of mineral proceeds regulated by the Railroad Commission must report the lease/well name, ID number and county. The Comptroller compiles a by-county list of mineral proceeds reports and amounts each year and makes it available for public inspection.⁹
• Electric cooperatives may redirect part of their unclaimed property to rural scholarship, economic development and energy-efficiency funds instead of sending it to the state. Telephone companies may send money to scholarship funds only (74.3011 rural, 74.3012 urban). Owners claim that money from the cooperative or company.⁷
• Bank, mutual-fund and safe-deposit customers may name a 'representative for notice' to get the holder's abandonment notice. The representative has no access to the account. The dormancy clock stops if the representative tells the holder they know the owner's location and that the owner has not abandoned the property.³⁷
• Checks can be mailed to claimants abroad, but there's no direct deposit or wire.³
• The full Texas unclaimed property dataset is not openly downloadable. The state open-data portal entry says to request access from [email protected], giving name, company, mailing address, phone and any Texas private investigator license number. The portal page shows last updated November 12, 2021.¹²
• Claims modernization: in October 2026 the Comptroller said it is restructuring the division and adding AI and new software to speed claims.⁸
• Holders may not use private agreements, bylaws or charter changes to keep or divide unclaimed funds and avoid escheat.⁹
• Abandoned IOLTA (lawyer trust) accounts are reported in the attorney's or firm's name, with the Texas Access to Justice Foundation's tax ID.⁷
• Utility deposits are not presumed abandoned for two years from when the depositor gives the utility documentation of being called to active military duty during the period.²⁷
• The Search Request form requires a name and also has optional fields for date of birth, Social Security number and previous address, so staff can search for you.³⁸
• Unclaimed property in Texas does not include real estate or vehicles.⁵
• The program has a Spanish-language help page (Ayuda en Español): claimittexas.gov/app/faq-ucp-spanish³⁰

Texas unclaimed property: questions people ask

Is it free to claim unclaimed property in Texas?

Free⁵

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

Heirs claim through statutory order (74.501(d)) with TAC 13.9 thresholds: affidavit of heirship up to $5,000.⁹ Details above.

Where do I search for Texas unclaimed property?

On the official search at claimittexas.gov.¹ Searching and claiming there is free.⁵

Which law governs unclaimed property in Texas?

Texas Property Code, Title 6 (Chapters 71-77); claims rules 34 Tex.⁷

When is the Texas unclaimed property report due?

July 1 annually, covering property presumed abandoned as of March 1 (report year March 2 - March 1).⁹ Details above.

How do I claim unclaimed property in Texas?

Claims can be filed online on the official site.² First step: Search by last or business name (and first name); narrow by city, or enter the Property ID from an owner notice.¹ All the steps.

Is the Texas unclaimed property site legitimate?

Yes, if it is claimittexas.gov:¹ the program is run by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Unclaimed Property Division.⁷ What the program warns about.

Where are the Texas unclaimed property claim forms?

claimittexas.gov/app/claim-forms²⁶

How long does a Texas unclaimed property claim take?

Owner claims: 1 month; Heir, guardian, estate, executor, trust and business claims: 11 months; Basis: from date documents were received⁴ Details above.

What is the Texas unclaimed property phone number?

(800) 321-2274 (CASH).⁶

What is the dormancy period for unclaimed property in Texas?

3 years for most property;²⁷ other types differ (see the table).

Moved? Neighboring programs

• New Mexico unclaimed property
• Oklahoma unclaimed property
• Arkansas unclaimed property
• Louisiana 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. How to Claim - 1. Search for Property Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (3)

   You can access the Property Search page through the menu by hovering over Claiming Property > "Search for Unclaimed Property," […].

   Type in Last or Business Name and First Name when applicable in the corresponding fields and click SEARCH. If you receive too many results, try narrowing your search by entering a city.

   If you've found property you can claim, click the CLAIM button. Once you've finished claiming property, click the CONTINUE TO FILE CLAIM button to begin the claims process.

2. How to Claim - 3. Complete Your Claim Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (5)

   Upload your documentation to the state through our secure online portal (opens in a new tab).

   If you have received a confirmation email/letter requiring additional documentation to file your claim, the state requires at minimum the signed claim form and photo identification.

   the state requires at minimum the signed claim form and photo identification

   The items required to approve the claim will be listed on the claim form attachment.

   Mail in your documentation to the following address: Comptroller of Public Accounts Unclaimed Property Claims Section P.O. Box 12046 Austin, TX 78711-2046

3. FAQs - Payment Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (2)

   Unclaimed property payments are issued via physical check sent through standard USPS mail; direct deposits and wire transfers are not available.

   Our office can mail checks anywhere outside the United States.

4. Search for Your Claim's Status (with current estimated wait times) Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (1)

   Current estimated wait times for claim processing are as follows: Owner claims - 1 month Heir, Guardianship, Estate, Executor, Trust, and Business claims - 11 months Processing time is based on the date documents were received.

5. FAQs - About Unclaimed Property Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (6)

   There is no statute of limitations for unclaimed property. Funds reported will remain here indefinitely until returned to their rightful owner.

   Their fees cannot be more than 10 percent of the value of the abandoned property recovered, including all expenses incurred.

   Do you charge for this service? No.

   You do not have to sign a contract with a private company to claim your money.

   The company has simply "reported" those funds. The state holds those funds until the rightful owner comes forward and is able to prove ownership.

   Unclaimed property does not include real estate or vehicles.

6. Contact Us Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (2)

   Phone Calls: 800-321-2274

   Searching & Claiming - [email protected]

7. Unclaimed Property 2026 Reporting Instructions (Publication 96-478) Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts · claimittexas.gov · Revised March 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (16)

   Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Unclaimed Property Division P.O. Box 12019 Austin, Texas 78711-2019

   Individual amounts of $100 or less must be reported to the county treasurer (for county offices) or designated officer for municipalities, school districts and junior colleges.

   Calculate five years from the date the last rental payments expired (i.e., the rental payment then due went unpaid).

   Policy proceeds 3 years Chapter 1109 March 1 July 1

   Individual retirement accounts (IRAs) have an abandonment period of three years, which begins on the mandatory distribution date of the required minimum distribution (RMD).

   Court deposits, trust funds and escrow accounts 3

   Holders reporting Crime Victims' Restitution payments should use property type code CT06. This property code has an abandonment period of five years.

   Safekeeping properties, loan collateral and any other tangible properties not held in safe deposit boxes should be reported after remaining unclaimed for three years.

   However, if an owner fails to cash a distribution, the three-year abandonment period would begin on the date the amount was payable.

   HS01 Health Savings Accounts 3

   CS01 Cash 3

   TR07 Earnest money 3

   UT03 Refunds or rebates 3

   Title 6 of the Texas Property Code governs the state of Texas Unclaimed Property Program.

   Texas nonprofit electric cooperatives (co-ops) have the option to redirect a portion of their reportable unclaimed property to one or more of the following three specific funds created to assist their communities.

   Abandoned IOLTA accounts should be reported in the name and address of the attorney or law firm.

8. Comptroller Huffines Launches Modernization of Unclaimed Property Program, Urges Texans to Claim Their Share of $12.5 Billion Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (press release) · comptroller.texas.gov · Oct. 30, 2026 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
   Quoted text (5)

   Texas Comptroller Don Huffines is encouraging Texans to check the state's unclaimed property database, with more than $12.5 billion currently waiting to be returned to its rightful owners.

   Under Huffines' direction, the agency has restructured the Unclaimed Property Division. Since Aug. 1, when he took office, this agency has processed 107,405 claims, a 40% increase over the same period last year.

   For more information about the program, or to search for unclaimed property and begin the claims process, visit the Comptroller's website, ClaimItTexas.gov, or call 800-321-2274 (CASH).

   Since Aug. 1, when he took office, this agency has processed 107,405 claims, a 40% increase over the same period last year.

   The push comes as the agency begins an unprecedented modernization of the unclaimed property program, bringing artificial intelligence into the claims process for the first time, along with new software, to get money back to Texans faster.

9. 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 (19)

   The comptroller may waive the requirement of filing a claim and pay or deliver property directly to a person who does not file a claim if: (1) the person receiving the property is the reported owner of the property; (2) the comptroller reasonably believes the person is entitled to receive the property or payment; and (3) the property has a value of less than $5,000.

   (d) A claim for money delivered under this section must be filed with the nonprofit cooperative corporation that delivered the money.

   (5) if the reported owner is a minor child or an adult who has been adjudged incompetent by a court of law, the parent or legal guardian of the child or adult;

   (a) A person who has filed a claim that complies with Section 74.501(c) may appeal the decision of the comptroller on the claim before the 61st day after the day on which it was rendered.

   (B) the court-appointed independent administrator of the owner's estate, if the administrator was appointed before the fourth anniversary of the date of the death of the owner; or

   (i) the amount of the property being claimed is less than $10,000; and

   (A) the president or chair of the board of directors of the corporation, on behalf of the corporation; or

   (B) the surviving shareholders of the corporation in proportion to their ownership of the corporation, if there is more than one surviving shareholder;

   (d) Amounts due that individually are less than $25 may be reported in the aggregate without furnishing any of the information required by Subsection (c).

   (a) Except as provided by Section 74.202, the comptroller may use one or more methods as necessary to provide the most efficient and effective notice to each reported owner in the calendar year immediately following the year in which the report required by Section 74.101 is filed.

   (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.

   (a) Each holder who on March 1 holds property to which this chapter applies shall file a report of that property on or before the following July 1.

   (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a holder who on March 1 holds property to which this chapter applies that is valued at more than $250 shall, not later than the 60th day before the date the property is delivered to the comptroller, provide to the owner by mail to the last known address of the owner or by e-mail written notice stating that:

   (a) A penalty equal to five percent of the value of the property due shall be imposed on a holder who fails to pay or deliver property within the time prescribed by this chapter. If a holder fails to pay or deliver property before the 31st day after the date the property is due, an additional penalty equal to five percent of the value of the property due shall be imposed.

   (2) shall be delivered by the comptroller to the Texas military forces.

   (B) the aggregate amount of mineral proceeds reported under Section 74.101 attributable to all wells, if any, located in each respective county.

   Sec. 74.309. PRIVATE ESCHEAT AGREEMENTS PROHIBITED.

10. MissingMoney.com State Index (page script and app configuration) MissingMoney.com (NAUPA) · missingmoney.com · archived copy, captured July 7, 2026 (view capture) · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Property for States in green are searchable on MissingMoney.

11. Texas Property Code, Title 6, Chapter 76: Report, Delivery, and Claims Process for Certain Property 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 (2)

    (a) A claim for property delivered to the treasurer of the holder under this chapter must be filed with the treasurer of the holder.

    (c) Costs of publication and postage shall be deducted from the amounts paid under this section, but deductions for any costs of administration or service charges may not be made.

12. Forms and Resources - Finding Money Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (3)

    Juror Checks Local County Office (office may vary by county):

    Texas Attorney General Victims Restitution Fund (opens in a new tab)

    Transparency Data https://data.texas.gov/Government-and-Taxes/Texas-Unclaimed-Property-Listing/3un9-h9it (opens in a new tab)

13. Forms and Resources - Finding Official Documents (incl. Mineral Interests and Royalties) Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (3)

    If you know the specific lease number, you can call the Texas Railroad Commission at 1-877-228-5740 for a query on what companies have been extracting mineral proceeds.

    Letters Testamentary/Administration/Guardianship County Clerk (opens in a new tab)

    Except for a very rare fraction of cases, no unclaimed mineral proceeds were sent to us before 1986.

14. Search for Unclaimed Property Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Try using nicknames, common misspellings or when applicable, maiden name.

15. How to Claim - 2. Initiate a Claim Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (2)

    Select your 'Relationship to the Owner' for each property before clicking NEXT.

    After clicking SUBMIT you will be given a Claim ID.

16. Upload Claim Documentation Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (2)

    Uploads must be either a standard PDF, TIF, PNG or JPG file type

    Certain claims require original documents in order to process and therefore cannot be uploaded to the website.

17. How to Claim - 4. Track Your Claim's Progress Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Enter your Claim ID at any time via our Status Page to receive the most recent status.

18. Affidavit of Heirship (Form 53-111-A) with instructions Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts · claimittexas.gov · Rev. 9-21 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    This section must be completed in front of a notary public.

19. 34 Tex. Admin. Code §13.6 Minimum Requirements for a Claim Texas Secretary of State, Texas Administrative Code viewer · texas-sos.appianportalsgov.com · in effect as of 11/02/2026; chapter review date 12/10/2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    (3) the social security number or employer identification number of each claimant, or a statement that a claimant does not have such a number; and

20. FAQs - Completing the Claim Form Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (6)

    Please use our interactive tool (opens in a new tab) to determine which documentation we may request.

    Documents will not be returned to you; only send originals when they are requested.

    A street mailing address must be provided; items may not be shipped to a post office box or internationally.

    If your claim is approved before stock is sold, whenever possible, shares will be returned to you electronically via Direct Registration System (DRS) and registered in your name at the company's Transfer Agent.

    A property shows a $0 value if it is a safe deposit box, stock or bond.

    Most items in safe deposit boxes are usually kept for one year, before being auctioned on GovDeals (opens in a new tab). Significant papers from safe deposit boxes are held for five years.

21. 34 Tex. Admin. Code §13.9 Documentation Requirements to Establish Heirship Texas Secretary of State, Texas Administrative Code viewer · texas-sos.appianportalsgov.com · in effect as of 11/02/2026; chapter review date 12/10/2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (5)

    (1) for claims equal to or less than $5,000, a copy of an affidavit of heirship from two disinterested witnesses attesting to the family history of each deceased owner, heir, or devisee, through whom the claimant is claiming legal heirship;

    (2) for claims greater than $5,000 but equal to or less than $10,000, a copy of an affidavit of heirship from two disinterested witnesses attesting to the family history of each deceased owner, heir, or devisee, through whom the claimant is claiming legal heirship that has been recorded in the county in which the decedent died or was residing at the time of the decedent's death;

    (3) for claims greater than $10,000 but equal to or less than $75,000, a small estate affidavit that substantially complies with the requirements of Estates Code, Chapter 205; or

    (4) for claims greater than $75,000, a judicial determination of heirship.

    (b) The comptroller may waive the documentation requirements of subsection (a) of this section and may request other documentation as may be appropriate under the circumstances to demonstrate the claimant is a legal heir of the reported owner.

22. 34 Tex. Admin. Code §13.10 Durable Powers of Attorney Texas Secretary of State, Texas Administrative Code viewer · texas-sos.appianportalsgov.com · in effect as of 11/02/2026; chapter review date 12/10/2025 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (2)

    (a) A person holding a durable power of attorney who makes a claim on behalf of a reported owner or other person must, in addition to presenting a copy of the durable power of attorney, provide the comptroller with a statement from a physician attending the principal that states that the claimant is presently disabled or incapacitated.

    (b) Before accepting a durable power of attorney the comptroller may require the agent presenting the power of attorney to provide an agent's certification that substantially complies with Estates Code, §751.203.

23. FAQs - Additional Information Needed Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    If you are unable to locate the other party, you must provide a judgement from a small claims court before we continue the claims process.

24. Texas Property Code, Title 6, Chapter 75: Texas Minerals 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 (2)

    A person purchasing mineral proceeds of an owner whose name has been reported or is reportable to the comptroller shall provide documentation required by the comptroller to substantiate that the transfer is executed by the reported owner or the reported owner's legal agent.

    (a) All mineral proceeds that are held or owing by the holder and that have remained unclaimed by the owner for longer than three years after they became payable or distributable and the owner's underlying right to receive those mineral proceeds are presumed abandoned.

25. Limited Authorization - Unclaimed Property (Individual Claim) Form 53-126 Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts · claimittexas.gov · 8-05 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    THIS IS NOT TO BE CONSTRUED AS A FULL POWER OF ATTORNEY OR A LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY

26. Forms and Resources - Claimant Forms Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    If you are unable to locate what you're looking for, or if you prefer not to use our Search Page, complete our Search Request Form.

27. Texas Property Code, Title 6, Chapter 72: Abandonment of Personal Property 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 (11)

    (a) Except as provided by this section and Sections 72.1015, 72.1016, 72.1017, 72.102, and 72.104, personal property is presumed abandoned if, for longer than three years:

    (b) An amount of unclaimed wages is presumed abandoned if, for longer than one year:

    (1) the first anniversary of the date a refund check for the utility deposit was payable to the owner of the deposit;

    (2) the third anniversary of the date the card was issued, if the card is not used after it is issued, or the date the card was last used or value was last added to the card; or

    (1) the third anniversary of the date on which the money order was issued;

    (1) the 15th anniversary of the date on which the check was issued;

    (b)(1) The three-year period leading to a presumption of abandonment of stock or another intangible ownership interest in a business association, the existence of which is evidenced by records available to the association, commences on the first date that either a sum payable as a result of the ownership interest is unclaimed by the owner or a communication to the owner is returned undelivered by the United States Postal Service.

    (c) Property distributable in the course of a demutualization or related reorganization of an insurance company is presumed abandoned on the first anniversary of the date the property becomes distributable if, at the time of the first distribution, the last known address of the owner according to the records of the holder of the property is known to be incorrect or the distribution or statements related to the distribution are returned by the post office as undeliverable and the owner has not:

    Tangible personal property that is found on county land or in a county park, facility, or right-of-way is presumed abandoned if, for longer than 120 days:

    (d) A person may charge a fee against a stored value card as provided by Chapter 604, Business & Commerce Code. A fee may not be charged against a stored value card after the card is presumed abandoned under this section.

    (c) A utility deposit is not presumed abandoned for two years from the time the depositor provides documentation to the utility of being called to active military service in any branch of the United States armed forces during any part of the period described by Subsection (b).

28. Texas Property Code, Title 6, Chapter 73: Property Held by Financial Institutions 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)

    (c) If the account is a checking or savings account or is a matured certificate of deposit, the account is presumed abandoned if the account has been inactive for at least three years as determined under Subsection (b)(1).

    (1) except as provided by Subsection (c), the account or safe deposit box has been inactive for at least five years as determined under Subsection (b);

    (1) the third anniversary of the date the check was payable;

29. Reporting Guidelines (Reporting UP, Abandonment Periods, Due Diligence tabs) Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Current Production of Ongoing Mineral Interest MI10 1 Year

30. ClaimItTexas.gov home page Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (3)

    SCAM ALERT: The Comptroller's office will never text or call requesting your online banking credentials, secure access code or any other personally identifiable information for any reason.

    TEXAS HAS RETURNED MORE THAN $5 BILLION IN UNCLAIMED PROPERTY TO ITS RIGHTFUL OWNERS.

    Ayuda en Español

31. Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar Announces Record $422 Million in Unclaimed Property Returned in Fiscal 2024 Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (press release) · comptroller.texas.gov · Sept. 5, 2024 · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (2)

    The Texas Comptroller's office approved and paid out a record $422.4 million in unclaimed property during the past fiscal year, Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced today.

    The $422.4 million represents nearly 250,000 claims paid to their rightful owners

32. Submit a Holder Report Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    NAUPA file extension must be .txt, .hrs, or .rpt

33. Creating a Remittance Report / Negative Report Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Texas requires holders to submit their reports using the electronic report format developed by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA2).

34. Voluntary Disclosure Agreements (VDAs) Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Chapter 74.707 (opens in a new tab) of the property code authorizes the Comptroller to waive the penalty or interest imposed on delinquent property if the holder has made a good faith effort to comply with Texas unclaimed property statutes.

35. Search Instructions (if you did not find your expected results) Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    Our site does not display small properties under $25.

36. FAQs - Searching for Property Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    If we cannot prove ownership, we will notify you and continue to display the funds on our website for future claims.

37. Designation of Representative for Notice (98-1036) Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts · claimittexas.gov · August 2026 (98-1036 8/26) · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    The designated representative does not have any rights to the account or safe deposit box and may not access the account or safe deposit box.

38. Search Request form Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (ClaimItTexas.gov) · claimittexas.gov · checked Nov. 3, 2026
    Quoted text (1)

    I am searching for money under the name(s) of: