Unclaimed Property in Missouri

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

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

There are general types of Missouri state unclaimed 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 state of Missouri unclaimed property

Beware of sites that charge you a fee to help you contact the Missouri unclaimed property division. This information should be available from your state government at no charge.
Try:  Sign up to use the National Unclaimed Property Database for free. It offers a search on both federal and state agencies. The Missouri state treasurer keeps a database of unclaimed property that is searchable by name.

Participate in an auction for unclaimed property in MO

Most states have their own auctions to allow prospective buyers to bid on unclaimed or otherwise abandoned property.
Try:  Bid4assets.com offers auctions on a variety of property that has been seized or forfeited to the U.S. Marshal’s Service. Carsfrom500.com allows you to search for government auctions in your area. You can specify zip code and a search radius.

Search for Missouri unclaimed properties in your community

Most communities in Missouri have a department that attempts to reunite unclaimed property with its owner. This department can answer specific questions regarding lost or abandoned property.
Try:  Clay County has a list of unclaimed property owners, but you will need to contact the Treasurer's Office for addresses and amounts. The Property Unit for the City of Springfield Police Department auctions unclaimed property periodically at Propertyroom.com.

• Unclaimed property in Missouri 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.