Missouri
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 of inactivity; includes checking, savings, and CDs |
| Wages/payroll | 3 | 3 years after wages become payable |
| Insurance proceeds | 5 | 5 years; life insurance triggered by death master file match |
| Securities | 5 | 5 years after last activity or communication |
| Utility deposits | 5 | 5 years after last activity |
| Safe deposit boxes | 5 | 5 years after expiration of lease |
| Traveler's checks | 15 | 15 years after issuance |
| Money orders | 7 | 7 years after issuance |
Missouri adopted the Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act (based on the 1981 model) with state-specific modifications. The standard dormancy period is 5 years for most property types. One in ten Missourians has unclaimed property with an average claim of nearly $300.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: Strict
Fee Cap: 10-15% (tiered) — Agreements for property held 12-24 months: max 10%. Property held 24-36 months: max 15%. Agreements for property held less than 12 months are unenforceable.
Waiting Period: 12 months — Agreements to pay compensation for property delivered to the Treasurer within the past 12 months are unenforceable. Tiered fee caps apply at 12-24 months (10%) and 24-36 months (15%).
Licensing Required: Yes — Recovery representatives must register with the State Treasurer prior to submitting any claim. Registration requires disclosure of names, addresses, tax ID, standard fee agreement (subject to Treasurer approval), and certification of compliance with Missouri tax and business registration requirements.
Solicitation Rules: Commercial or professional locators who charge finders' fees may not access the public record of unclaimed property until 90 days after publication of owner names. Fee agreements must be approved by the Treasurer.