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Unclaimed Property Guide

The Sunset API helps you track unclaimed property discovered through state databases. Every state holds billions in unclaimed assets from dormant accounts, uncashed checks, and forgotten deposits. This guide covers the search and claim process.

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API Path

/cases/{case_id}/unclaimed-property
/cases/{case_id}/unclaimed-property/{property_id}

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Typical Workflow

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1. Record discovered unclaimed property

After searching state databases, add discoveries to the case: 
curl -X POST "https://api.example.com/v1/cases/{case_id}/unclaimed-property" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "property_type": "dormant_bank_account",
    "state": "IL",
    "holder_name": "State of Illinois",
    "reported_amount": 1250.00,
    "property_description": "Dormant checking account",
    "owner_name_on_record": "JANE M DOE",
    "claim_status": "discovered",
    "claim_url": "https://icash.illinoistreasurer.gov",
    "required_documents": ["death_certificate", "letters_testamentary", "government_id"]
  }'

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2. File a claim

Update the status when you submit a claim: 
curl -X PATCH "https://api.example.com/v1/cases/{case_id}/unclaimed-property/{property_id}" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "claim_status": "claim_filed",
    "claim_filed_date": "2025-10-25",
    "document_ids": ["01K9DOC001", "01K9DOC002", "01K9DOC003"],
    "notes": "Submitted online via state portal. Confirmation #CLM-2025-98765"
  }'

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3. Track claim resolution

curl -X PATCH "https://api.example.com/v1/cases/{case_id}/unclaimed-property/{property_id}" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "claim_status": "paid",
    "claim_approved_date": "2025-12-10",
    "claim_paid_amount": 1250.00
  }'

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Property Types

TypeDescription
dormant_bank_accountInactive bank account turned over to state
uncashed_checkCheck that was never cashed
insurance_proceedsUnclaimed insurance payouts
utility_depositUtility security deposit
rental_depositRental security deposit
safe_deposit_boxContents of abandoned safe deposit box
stocks_bondsUnclaimed stocks or bonds
retirement_accountUnclaimed retirement funds
gift_cardUnused gift card balance
mineral_rightsUnclaimed mineral/oil rights royalties
wagesUnclaimed wages or payroll
refundUnclaimed tax or other refund

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Required Documents

DocumentWhen Needed
death_certificateAlways required
letters_testamentaryIf estate is in probate with a will
letters_of_administrationIf estate is in probate without a will
affidavitSmall estate affidavit (when no probate)
government_idExecutor/administrator photo ID
proof_of_heirshipTo establish heir relationship

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Key Considerations

  • Search all 50 states where the deceased lived, worked, or had financial accounts. Don’t limit searches to the state of residence.
  • Name variations matter. Search maiden names, middle names, misspellings, and initials.
  • No deadline to file in most states. Unclaimed property is held indefinitely in most jurisdictions.
  • No fee to claim. Never pay a “finder” to retrieve unclaimed property you can claim yourself for free through state portals.
  • Processing time varies widely from 2 weeks to 6+ months depending on the state and claim complexity.
  • Multiple claims can be filed across different states simultaneously.