Mississippi
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 | Savings and checking accounts; 5 years from last owner activity |
| Wages/payroll | 5 | Unpaid wages; 5 years when existence and location of owner is unknown |
| Insurance proceeds | 5 | Life insurance matured policies and casualty claims |
| Securities | 5 | Stocks, dividends, and distributions |
| Utility deposits | 5 | Utility deposits and refunds |
| Safe deposit boxes | 5 | Contents auctioned for cash proceeds before reporting |
| Checks | 5 | Cashier's checks, certified checks, uncashed checks |
| Traveler's checks | 15 | 15 years after issuance |
| Money orders | 7 | 7 years after issuance |
Mississippi uses a general 5-year dormancy period for most property types under the Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act. Longer periods apply for traveler's checks (15 years) and money orders (7 years). Items under $100 each may be reported in aggregate. The Treasurer has returned $150 million to Mississippians, with record returns in recent consecutive years.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: Moderate
Fee Cap: 10% — The Treasurer must approve all contracts to locate reported unclaimed property. Fee cannot exceed 10% of the value of the recoverable property (Miss. Code 89-12-25).
Waiting Period: 7 months — It is unlawful to seek fees or contract for locating property within 7 months after the date of payment or delivery by the holder to the Treasurer (Miss. Code 89-12-25).
Solicitation Rules: All finder contracts must be approved by the State Treasurer. Finders cannot contact owners or enter contracts until at least 7 months after property is delivered to the Treasurer.