Hawaii
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 | 5 | 5 years after maturity or last indication of interest; includes checking, savings, and CDs |
| Wages/payroll | 1 | 1 year after wages become payable |
| Insurance proceeds | 5 | 5 years after maturity/termination; 3 years after insured's limiting age for death benefits |
| Securities | 5 | 5 years after last activity; includes dividends and shares |
| Utility deposits | 1 | 1 year after termination of services |
| Safe deposit boxes | 5 | 5 years after expiration of lease or rental period |
| Gift certificates | 5 | 5 years after December 31 of year of sale (non-exempt certificates) |
| Traveler's checks | 15 | 15 years after issuance |
| Money orders | 7 | 7 years after issuance |
Hawaii's unclaimed property law (HRS 523A) is based on the 1995 Uniform Unclaimed Property Act. Dormancy periods range from 1 year to 15 years. Act 184 (2014) requires claims for funds under $100 to be made within 10 years of deposit or the funds escheat to the state general fund. The Department of Budget and Finance administers the program, which is unique among states (most use Treasurer or Controller). Program holds over $150 million in unclaimed property.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: Moderate
Fee Cap: None (attorneys: 25% w/o court OK) — HRS 523A-25 does not impose a specific fee cap on non-attorney finders. Attorney agreements for circuit court actions may not exceed 25% of the total value without court approval. All agreements must clearly set forth the value of property before and after fees are deducted.
Waiting Period: 24 months — Agreements to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in recovery of abandoned property are void and unenforceable if entered during the period from when property was presumed abandoned through 24 months after delivery to the administrator (HRS 523A-25).
Solicitation Rules: Agreements must be in writing, signed by the apparent owner, clearly state the nature of property and services, and show the value before and after fee deduction. The 24-month waiting period from delivery to administrator is strictly enforced. Owners can challenge agreements based on excessive or unjust consideration at any time.