State guide · 5 min read
Michigan unclaimed property: how to search and claim
Michigan's unclaimed property program is run by the Michigan Department of Treasury. It holds forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts, and safe deposit box contents until the owner claims them. Searching and claiming are free.
| Who runs it | Michigan Department of Treasury, Unclaimed Property Division |
|---|---|
| Official search | unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov |
| Cost | Free to search and claim |
| Review time by law | The state must consider each claim within 90 days after it is filed (MCL 567.245) |
| Track a claim | Use the claim ID you get after filing |
How to search and claim in Michigan
- Go to unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov and search your name. Results include similar names, so check addresses.
- Add each matching property to your claim.
- Provide ID and any proof the Treasury asks for, especially proof of the address on the record.
- Save the claim ID and check back. Larger or estate claims can need extra review.
How long Michigan takes
Michigan law says the administrator must consider each claim within 90 days after it is filed and send written notice if it denies the claim in whole or in part. Claims that need more documents, or that involve an estate, can take longer to finish.
Search tips that actually find money
- Search your last name only first, then narrow by city. Typos in old records are common.
- Try maiden names, old married names, and the names of any business you ran.
- Search parents and grandparents who have died if you might be an heir.
- Search every state you have lived in. Use MissingMoney.com for a free multi-state search, and our list of all 50 state sites.
- Search again once or twice a year, since businesses report new property every year.
Do not pay a finder
Some companies mail letters offering to recover your money for a percentage. Claiming directly from the state is free. If someone texts you a link about "unclaimed funds," type the state's address yourself instead. More on spotting fakes in fake settlement texts and emails.
Money you can still claim before a deadline
Unclaimed property is money already paid out and waiting. Open class action settlements are money you can still file for:
- TED Foundation: Data Privacy $5 · by Oct 26
- Pork Prices Varies · by Oct 29
- FinWise Bank: Data Breach Up to $5,000 · by Oct 29
- Trans Union: Consumer Reports $100 - $1,000 · by Oct 30
- Bestway: Above-Ground Pools $40+ · by Oct 30
See also how to find unclaimed money in your name and what happens to an uncashed settlement check.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Michigan unclaimed property search free?
Yes. Searching and claiming through the Michigan Department of Treasury is free.
How long does a Michigan unclaimed property claim take?
State law (MCL 567.245) requires the Treasury to consider a claim within 90 days after it is filed. Claims missing documents take longer.
Can I claim for a parent who died in Michigan?
Often yes, as an heir or estate representative. Expect to provide a death certificate and probate or heirship documents.
Is there a deadline in Michigan?
States generally hold unclaimed property for the owner indefinitely, so you can usually claim at any time.