Northern Mariana Islands
Statutory term: Escheat (Dormant and Inactive Accounts)
Overview
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 deposits (savings/checking) | 5 | Escheat Act of 2011; dormant or inactive bank accounts escheat to the CNMI government |
| Certificates of deposit | 5 | Per NMIAC 20-20.4 regulations |
| Other unclaimed funds | 5 | General unclaimed funds provision under the Escheat Act |
The CNMI passed the Escheat Act of 2011 to allow the government access to dormant or inactive bank accounts and unclaimed funds. Implementing regulations are found in NMIAC Subchapter 20-20.4. The program is narrower in scope than most state unclaimed property programs, primarily covering bank deposits and basic financial instruments. The CNMI is not a NAUPA member and does not participate in MissingMoney.com.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: None
Fee Cap: None specified — The CNMI Escheat Act of 2011 and implementing regulations (NMIAC 20-20.4) do not contain specific finder fee provisions.
Waiting Period: None specified — No statutory waiting period. The CNMI program is limited in scope, primarily addressing bank deposits.
Solicitation Rules: No specific finder solicitation rules in territorial law.