New Hampshire
Statutory term: Abandoned Property
Overview
Search for Unclaimed Property
This program provides a public search portal where you can look up unclaimed property.
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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 | 1 | 1 year after wages become payable |
| Insurance proceeds | 5 | 5 years; demutualization proceeds have 2-year dormancy |
| Securities | 3 | 3 years after last activity; includes dividends, shares, and stock interests |
| Utility deposits | 1 | 1 year after termination of services |
| Safe deposit boxes | 5 | 5 years after expiration of lease or rental period |
| IRA accounts | 5 | 5 years after the account becomes distributable |
| Traveler's checks | 15 | 15 years after issuance |
| Money orders | 7 | 7 years after issuance |
New Hampshire's RSA 471-C uses the term 'abandoned property' rather than 'unclaimed property.' The general dormancy period is 5 years, with 3 years for securities and 1 year for wages and utility deposits. The Abandoned Property Division has returned more than $179 million to rightful owners. New Hampshire uses an escheat model where unclaimed funds are eventually transferred to county treasurers and the state general fund. Claims for funds under $100 may have time limitations.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: Moderate
Fee Cap: None specified — RSA 471-C:39 does not impose a specific percentage cap on finder fees. However, owners may assert at any time that a compensation agreement is based upon excessive or unjust consideration.
Waiting Period: 24 months — All agreements to pay compensation to locate, deliver, recover, or assist in recovery of property reported under RSA 471-C:19, made within 24 months after the date payment or delivery is made under RSA 471-C:21, are unenforceable.
Solicitation Rules: Agreements must include the disclosure: 'Each state maintains an office of abandoned property.' Owners retain the right to challenge any agreement as based on excessive or unjust consideration at any time. The 24-month waiting period is strictly enforced.