Kentucky

Statutory term: Unclaimed Property

Overview

Search for Unclaimed Property

This program provides a public search portal where you can look up unclaimed property.

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Key Statistics

Total Value Held (2024)
$800.0M
Annual Returns (2024)
$34.0M

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 3 years of inactivity per KRS 393A.040
Wages/payroll 1 1 year after becoming payable
Commissions 3 3 years after becoming payable
Insurance proceeds (life) 3 3 years after becoming payable
Securities/dividends 3 3 years of inactivity
Utility deposits 1 1 year after service termination
Safe deposit boxes 5 5 years after lease expiration
Traveler's checks 15 15 years after issuance
Money orders 7 7 years after issuance
Accounts payable 3 3 years of inactivity
Credit balances 3 3 years of inactivity
Customer refunds 3 3 years after becoming payable
IRA (traditional) 3 3 years after required distribution date

Kentucky adopted the Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act (RUUPA) in 2018 under KRS Chapter 393A, making it one of the earlier RUUPA adopters. Most property types have a 3-year dormancy period. Due diligence notices must be sent via first-class mail 60-180 days before the report filing deadline for property valued at $50 or more. The State Treasury holds approximately $800 million in unclaimed assets.

Finder / Helper Restrictions

Restriction Level: Moderate

Fee Cap: 10% — Compensation may not exceed 10% of the value of the recoverable property (KRS 393A).

Waiting Period: 24 months — Agreements to locate unclaimed property are unenforceable if the property has been held by the state for less than 24 months.

Solicitation Rules: Finders must inform owners that unclaimed property can be claimed without a fee, free and simple. Claims by finders require a notarized contract.