Unclaimed Property in Pennsylvania

Locate PA unclaimed property to use in your business
By Emmet McMahan A court may classify unclaimed property in Pennsylvania 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. Pennsylvania 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 PA abandoned property. Generally, the state serves as the custodian for abandoned property in Pennsylvania until the appropriate agencies approve the finder’s claim on the abandoned property. Pennsylvania companies frequently lose property through misfortune or carelessness. Unclaimed property can be an inexpensive way to obtain business equipment.

There are general types of Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania unclaimed property

Beware of sites that charge you a fee to help you find contact information for the Pennsylvania unclaimed property division. This information should be available from your state government at no charge.
Try:  UnclaimedMoney.us.com allows you to search for unclaimed property by name and allows you to select city and state. The Pennsylvania state treasurer keeps a database of unclaimed property that is searchable by name or company name.

Participate in an auction for unclaimed property in PA

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. JustStolen.net provides a service that allows police departments to auction unclaimed evidence.

Search for Pennsylvania abandoned property in your community

Some communities in Pennsylvania have a department that attempts to reunite unclaimed property with its owner. This department can answer specific questions regarding lost or abandoned property.
Try:  The Department of Court Records for Allegheny County keeps escheated property for five years before turning it over to the state treasury. The Philadelphia Parking Authority conducts regular auctions of abandoned vehicles.

• Unclaimed property in Pennsylvania 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.