Unclaimed Property in Texas Key Terms

Learn key terms and find out if Texas is holding unclaimed property for you
By J. Simonetta Whether you used to live in Texas and forgot to get some deposits back, or you used to have family in the area and are wondering if anyone left you something, it's easy to check if you have unclaimed property in Texas. If you're an employer or employee in Texas, you also have certain rights and responsibilities regarding unclaimed property in the state. Either way, it'll help you in your search if you learn some unclaimed property in Texas key terms.

Unclaimed property or escheatment

The Texas Comptroller is the legal entity that holds unclaimed or abandoned property until the owner collects it. The process by which the unclaimed property becomes property of the state is called escheatment. You can search for unclaimed property at the Comptroller's website.
Try:  See if you have any property in Texas by performing a search at the Window on State Government page.

Reclaim

To reclaim your Texas property, you have to submit identification as well as documentation regarding the lost property. In the case of a death, you also have to provide a death certificate and heirship documents.
Try:  Winmark Business Solutions discusses the process of reclaiming property in Texas.

Holder reporting

If you're a business owner in Texas and a former employee or renter has abandoned property with you, you're required to report the unclaimed property. You can do so by filling out an Unclaimed Property Secure Holder Reporting form.
Try:  Keane has information about holder reporting requirements in Texas.

Time limits

Although many states place time limits on how long they will hold items, Texas does not impose any limits. That last paycheck or deposit will be waiting for you, even if it has been 20 years.
Try:  Find out more about unclaimed property and time limits from Mark Kantrowitz.

Texas police auction

Some unclaimed property, like stolen goods that end up impounded at a police station, is put up for auction by police departments or government bodies in Texas.
Try:  Find out about unclaimed property and other Texas auctions at Lone Star Auctioneers.

National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators

If you are unsure of where you might have unclaimed property, you can search the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) for your property.
Try:  Enter your information at the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators' MissingMoney.com to see if there is unclaimed property waiting for you.