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Documents Required for Every Claim
Regardless of property type or state, every claim requires identity verification. This is always the core of your document packet.
- Government-issued photo ID — current driver's license or passport (both sides for driver's license)
- Proof of Social Security number — your SSN card, or a tax document clearly showing your full SSN
- Current address proof — utility bill, bank statement, or lease within the past 90 days showing your name and address
Additional Documents by Property Type
Bank Accounts (Checking, Savings, CD, Money Market)
- Prior address documentation for every address where you held the account — old tax returns, prior utility bills, or old bank statements
- Account number or partial account number if available (not always required)
- Name of the bank and any name it may have gone by at the time
Utility Deposits
- Documentation placing you at the service address — lease, old utility bill, prior tax return showing that address
- Account number or any correspondence from the utility (if available)
Insurance Payouts
- Policy number if known
- For life insurance claims: death certificate of the insured, proof of your beneficiary status
- Original policy documents if available
Payroll / Uncashed Paychecks
- Employer name and your dates of employment
- Pay stubs if available
- Any W-2 forms from the relevant employer and year
Stocks and Securities
- Brokerage account number if known
- Stock certificates or confirmation statements if available
- Name of the brokerage or transfer agent
Heir / Estate Claims (Deceased Owner)
- Certified death certificate — ordered from the vital records office, not a photocopy
- Your birth certificate showing the deceased as your parent (for parent claims)
- Marriage certificate if claiming as surviving spouse
- Small estate affidavit (notarized) if estate qualifies for simplified process
- Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration if probate was opened
Document Format Requirements
Many claims are delayed because documents are submitted in an unacceptable format, not because the wrong document was provided.
- Scanned documents should be at least 200 DPI; 300 DPI preferred. Blurry or unreadable submissions are rejected automatically at most states.
- Death certificates must be certified copies — not photocopies, not scans of the original.
- Notarized affidavits must have a visible notary seal; confirm your state accepts electronic notarization if submitting online.
- If submitting via mail, send photocopies — not originals — unless explicitly required otherwise.
Disclaimer: Document requirements vary by state and change over time. Always verify with your state's unclaimed property office before filing.