Oregon
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 (checking/savings) | 3 | No owner contact for 3 years |
| Wages/payroll | 1 | Shortest dormancy period |
| Insurance proceeds | 3 | Life/endowment policies; unmatured policies 2 years without positive owner contact |
| Securities/dividends | 3 | Cash and shares |
| Utility deposits | 1 | Same as wages |
| Safe deposit boxes | 2 | Shorter than most states |
| Accounts payable/credit balances | 3 | Standard commercial property |
| Money orders | 7 | Extended dormancy |
| Traveler's checks | 15 | Longest dormancy period |
| Dissolution distributions | 1 | Property distributable in course of dissolution |
General dormancy period is 3 years for most property types. Wages and utility deposits have a 1-year period. Safe deposit boxes have a 2-year period, shorter than most states. Due diligence requires first-class mail notice to owner's last known address at least 60 days before filing for property valued at $50 or more.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: Light
Fee Cap: None (no statutory cap) — Oregon does not restrict or prohibit finder fees. The agreement between the finder and the potential claimant is a business issue between the two parties. However, finders must not represent themselves as agents of the State of Oregon.
Waiting Period: 2 years — Information on unclaimed property accounts is confidential for one year before being reported to the state and for two years after being remitted to the Department (ORS 98.352). Finder reports available from Treasury at $150 per release.
Licensing Required: Yes — Finders must be licensed private investigators through Oregon's Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) under ORS 703.401-703.470.
Solicitation Rules: No specific statutory restrictions on solicitation, but account information is confidential for 2 years after remittance to the state. Finders must obtain a notarized power of attorney from the property owner before filing claims.