South Carolina
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) | 5 | 5 years of inactivity |
| Wages/payroll | 1 | 1 year after becoming payable |
| Insurance proceeds | 5 | 5 years after becoming payable |
| Securities/dividends | 3 | 3 years for stocks and equity interests |
| Utility deposits | 1 | 1 year after service termination |
| Safe deposit boxes | 5 | 5 years after lease expiration |
| Traveler's checks | 15 | 15 years after issuance |
| Money orders | 7 | 7 years after issuance |
| Outstanding checks | 5 | 5 years after date of issuance |
| Credit balances | 5 | 5 years of inactivity |
| Utility refunds | 5 | 5 years after becoming payable per refund order |
South Carolina generally uses a 5-year dormancy period for most property types. The State Treasurer safeguards over $1 billion in unclaimed property. In FY 2024, more than 73,000 properties totaling $38 million were returned to owners. Reporting deadline is November 1 each year.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: Strict
Fee Cap: 15% — It is unlawful to seek or receive compensation for locating unclaimed property in excess of 15% of the value returned to the owner (S.C. Code 27-18-360).
Waiting Period: 24 months — All agreements to pay compensation made within 24 months after property is paid or delivered to the administrator are void and unenforceable (S.C. Code 27-18-360).
Solicitation Rules: No specific statutory prohibition on unsolicited contact, but the 24-month waiting period and fee cap provide significant restrictions.