Unclaimed Property in New Jersey After a Death

Who can claim for someone who has died

Someone can claim property that is not in their name only if they have the legal right to do so, such as the executor or executrix of an estate. When you file, select the claimant type that fits, such as heir or legal representative.

What you will typically need

• ✓A claim filed online after you search for the property
• ✓The owner’s Social Security number, which New Jersey uses to help confirm the rightful owner
• ✓Proof of your legal right to claim for the owner, such as your role as executor
• ✓Any documents the Administration lists for your claim. It emails you the list, and you upload them online

Requirements can vary with the type and amount of property. Follow the instructions on the official site.

What it costs

Free. The Administration never charges a fee to search or claim. Heir finders may charge up to 20 percent of the property’s value, so there is no need to pay one.

Good to know

• •New Jersey never takes ownership of unclaimed property. If it is not claimed, it stays in the state’s Unclaimed Property Trust Fund in perpetuity until a valid claim is processed.
• •New Jersey pays interest on property from the date it was turned over to the state until the claim is approved.

Search other states too

Property is reported to the state where the company is located, so check every state your loved one lived in. MissingMoney.com searches most participating states at once. You can also browse every state and DC in our unclaimed property guide.