Unclaimed Property in Massachusetts

Locate MA unclaimed property to use in your business
By Emmet McMahan A court may classify unclaimed property in Massachusetts as abandoned, lost or mislaid. These classifications have their origins in common law and can be difficult to interpret under modern legal systems. Massachusetts abandoned property law generally ensures property is not left ownerless and property owners usually have a superior claim to a trespasser who discovers the property.
 

There are specific forms and procedures to follow when claiming Massachusetts abandoned property. Generally, the state serves as the custodian for abandoned property in Massachusetts until the appropriate agencies approve the finder’s claim on the abandoned property. Massachusetts companies frequently lose property through misfortune or carelessness. Unclaimed property can be an inexpensive way to obtain business equipment.

There are general types of MA abandoned property:

1. Liquid assets such as a dormant bank account, safe deposit contents, unclaimed deposits or refunds, uncashed checks and unused insurance benefits;

2. Abandoned property the original owner is unlikely to return to claim. Certain property such as wrecked cars, ships or aircraft may belong to the state;

3. Property confiscated by law enforcement or repossessed by a loan company. These items are frequently auctioned off to the public.

Find agencies that handle unclaimed property in MA

Beware of sites that charge you a fee to help you find contact information for the Massachusetts unclaimed property division. This information should be available from your state government at no charge.
Try: Conduct a national search at MissingMoney.com by first and last name, and state. The Massachusetts Abandoned Property Division keeps a database of unclaimed property that is searchable by name, business name and city.

Participate in an auction for abandoned property in MA

Most states have their own auctions to allow prospective buyers to bid on unclaimed or otherwise abandoned property.
Try: Carsfrom500.com allows you to search for government auctions in your area. You can specify zip code and a search radius on its website. SeizedLuxuryHomes.com allows you to search for seized homes by zip code. You may bid on these homes at local or online auctions.

Search for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts abandoned property in your city

Some communities in Massachusetts have a department that attempts to reunite unclaimed property with its owner. This department can answer specific questions regarding lost or abandoned property.
Try: Aiken County has an unclaimed property program. You can access a list of people and businesses owed from the county website. The Evidence Unit for the Weymouth Police Department holds unclaimed property that it sells at periodic auctions.

• Unclaimed property in Massachusetts that the owner deliberately hides or conceals may be a treasure trove instead of mislaid property. The property must remain concealed long enough for the owner to be dead or undiscoverable. A treasure trove may belong to the finder or the property owner.