What is Unclaimed Money in Rhode Island?
Unclaimed money in Rhode Island refers to any money that has been left unclaimed by its rightful owner. This can include things like uncashed paychecks, unreturned security deposits, and unclaimed lottery winnings. The state of Rhode Island has a number of laws and regulations in place governing the handling of unclaimed money which are specified in the Rhode Island Statutes.
Under Rhode Island law, all unclaimed money must be reported to the Rhode Island State Treasurer within a certain period of time. The treasurer then holds onto the money until such time as the owner comes forward to claim it. If the owner does not come forward within a certain period of time, the money then becomes the property of the state.
There are a few exceptions to this rule, however. For example, if the owner of the unclaimed money is a minor, the money may be turned over to a guardian or trustee until the owner comes of age. Additionally, some types of unclaimed money, such as wages or tax refunds, may be exempt from this rule and may instead be turned over to the appropriate state agency.
How to Find Unclaimed Money in Rhode Island
Interested persons may find unclaimed money in Rhode Island by visiting the Unclaimed Property Division of the Rhode Island General Treasurer’s Office. The office has a searchable online database where people can look for their own name or the name of a business. If someone finds money that may belong to them, they can submit a claim form online or by mail. The office will also help claimants fill out the necessary paperwork. Proof of ownership may be required.
The Unclaimed Property Division is responsible for custody and control of unclaimed property belonging to Rhode Island residents and businesses. The division works to reunite rightful owners with their property, which may include money, stocks, bonds, jewelry, and other valuables. Each year, millions of dollars in unclaimed property are turned over to the state by businesses, financial institutions, and other organizations. The treasurer’s office works to publicize the existence of this property and help people claim what is rightfully theirs.
If you have any questions about unclaimed property in Rhode Island, you can contact the Unclaimed Property Division at (401) 462-7676 or by email at ups@treasury.ri.gov. The office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. EST. In-person requests may be made to the division at:
Rhode Island General Treasurer’s Office
Unclaimed Property Division
50 Service Avenue Warwick,
RI 02886
How Do I Find Rhode Island Unclaimed Money for Free?
The Rhode Island official unclaimed money database can be used to search for unclaimed money and property at no cost. Claimants are only required to provide information relevant to the search in order to initiate a search. The database may also be used to check the claim status of a query submitted to the Treasurer’s office.
Alternatively, Rhode Island state residents can also access unclaimed money through federal agencies and databases including:
- HUD/FHA Mortgage Insurance Refunds
- Bankruptcy Courts (Rhode Island)
- The National Association of Unclaimed Money Administrators
How to Claim Unclaimed Money in Rhode Island
After finding the unclaimed property of interest on the Find Ri Money database maintained by the state treasurers office, requestors may proceed to Submit their claim in the following steps:
Review the Claimed Property and Specify Ownership:
Upon selecting the unclaimed property, users must confirm the unclaimed item(s) chosen and then specify the nature of their (the claimant) relationship to the owner of the property. If the claimant is the owner of the property, they may select ‘owner’. However, those who aren’t will be required to indicate their status and relationship to the owner.
Enter Personal Information and Address:
Claimants will be required to provide their personal information as well as a verifiable mailing address. The subsequent on-screen prompt will be a means to verify the address.
Submit the Claim and Supporting Documents:
After verifying the information provided for accuracy and completeness, claimants can submit the claim. A claim ID will be automatically generated and provided to the claimant to be used for tracking the status of the claim.
The following documents are typically required for a claim to be processed.
- Photo identification
- Legal document containing SSN
- Other requirements specified in the email sent to the claimant; this may be unique to each claim type.
The documentation may be submitted via the secure link or to the following address
Rhode Island Unclaimed Property Division
P.O. Box 1435
Providence, RI 02901-1435
How Long Does It Take to Get Unclaimed Money in Rhode Island?
It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to receive unclaimed money in Rhode Island. The amount of time it takes to receive the money will depend on the particular situation and on the agency that is holding the money. In some cases, the money may be sent directly to the person who is owed, while in other cases, it may be necessary to go through a claims process.
Who Can Claim Unclaimed Money From Deceased Relatives in Rhode Island?
The following persons are eligible to claim unclaimed money from deceased relatives in Rhode Island:
- The surviving spouse or domestic partner of the deceased
- The surviving children of the deceased, including adopted and stepchildren
- The surviving parents of the deceased
- The surviving siblings of the deceased, including half-siblings and step-siblings
If there is no surviving spouse, domestic partner, child, parent, or sibling of the deceased, then the following persons may claim the unclaimed money:
- The executor or administrator of the deceased's estate
- A person who can demonstrate that they are entitled to the unclaimed money under the terms of the deceased's will or trust agreement.
The following documents are typically required to claim unclaimed money from deceased relatives in Rhode Island:
- A copy of the death certificate of the deceased
- Proof of the claimant’s relationship to the deceased, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate
- A copy of the will or trust agreement, if applicable
- Proof of identity, such as a driver's license or passport.
What Happens to Rhode Island Unclaimed Money if No One Claims It?
If no one claims Rhode Island unclaimed money within the specified time frame, the money will be turned over to the state's general fund. However, the money is still held until a claimant comes forward. There is no statute of limitations on making an unclaimed money or unclaimed property claim.
