Connecticut
Statutory term: Unclaimed Property
Overview
Search for Unclaimed Property
This program provides a public search portal where you can look up unclaimed property.
Search Now →Key Statistics
Dormancy Periods
The dormancy period is how long property must be inactive before it is considered unclaimed and reported to the state.
| Property Type | Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bank accounts (checking/savings) | 3 | Standard 3-year dormancy |
| Wages/payroll/commissions | 1 | Shortest dormancy period |
| Insurance proceeds | 3 | Life insurance, endowment policies, annuity contracts |
| Securities (dividends/shares) | 3 | Cash and shares |
| Utility deposits | 1 | Same as wages |
| Safe deposit boxes | 5 | Longer dormancy for physical property |
| Accounts payable/credit balances | 3 | Standard commercial property |
| Traditional IRA (cash) | 3 | Individual retirement accounts |
| Money orders | 7 | Extended dormancy |
| Traveler's checks | 15 | Longest dormancy period |
Connecticut generally uses a 3-year dormancy period for most intangible property types. Holders must deliver property and file a report within 90 days after the close of the calendar year in which property is presumed abandoned. Due diligence notice to owner required 180 days before presumption of abandonment (C.G.S. 3-65a). Record $120.9M returned in FY2025, first time topping $100M. Over $1.2B returned since 1998.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: Strict
Fee Cap: 10% — Connecticut law (C.G.S. 3-70a) restricts finders to a maximum fee of 10% of the value of recoverable property. This is one of the strictest fee caps in the nation.
Waiting Period: 2 years — Agreements to locate property entered into on or after January 1, 2023 are valid only if entered into within two years after the date a report of unclaimed property is required to be filed, or between when such report is required to be filed and when it is filed (whichever is longer).
Solicitation Rules: Any solicitation must clearly and conspicuously disclose in a written statement that any individual may search for and file a claim for such property directly with the Treasurer at no cost, and the method through which such claim may be filed. Agreements entered into on or after January 1, 2025 must be in writing, signed by the owner, with full disclosure of property value, owner's share, and the free claim option.