Guide to Asset Records Search

Widespread Internet availability has transformed the process of conducting an asset records search. At the click of a mouse, it's possible to conduct a surprisingly thorough asset search.

Online unclaimed asset search databases allow users to search for unclaimed property in both business names and individual names.

Keep the following in mind when you're trying to find hidden assets by conducting asset searches:

1. Although you might choose to pay a business asset search service to find hidden assets for you or your company, there is no fee involved in actually filing the required paperwork and attempting to claim the assets.
2. A business asset search service is a good option if you're limited geographically and not able to travel to areas where you need to do research.
3. Results from an online asset records search can be the first step in helping you locate hidden assets.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use government and government-affiliated asset search databases

Unclaimed property databases allow users to search for unclaimed funds held by states' treasury departments. They've grown in popularity after being widely publicized.

I recommend: Try the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators. This website includes links to each state's treasury department website. Also, try MissingMoney.com for links to the states' treasury department websites.

Use an asset search firm

If you're willing to pay a fee, asset search services can help you with the process of conducting a business asset search.

I recommend: Try Bearak Reports. They offer an ExpresSearch Series which provides clients with many different search options including personal property and real estate searches. They also offer an ExpresSearch Plus Series and an AssetView Select Series. Another choice is Able Investigations. They have licensed investigators, many of whom have juris doctor degrees.

Learn more about how to search assets and complete the required paperwork to make a claim

The required paperwork varies depending on what type of unclaimed property you find. Many state treasury databases include links to the required forms, and many are often available in PDF format.

I recommend: Read more about unclaimed assets at the United States Department of the Treasury website. Complete the required forms to establish proof of heirship. Unpaid foreign claims require these two forms.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Weigh your options. Determine how much time you have to devote to finding hidden assets. If your time is limited, hiring a firm to conduct a business asset search might be the right choice for you.
• Proceed with caution if someone contacts you about hidden assets or unclaimed property. Be careful to avoid possible scams. Guard your personal information such as your social security number or employer identification number. Confirm the person or company's identity before proceeding further.
• Some state treasury unclaimed property databases won't list unclaimed funds under a certain amount, and most only list whether or not the amount is under or over $100.

The official source of Asset Records Search is the Asset Records Search page at Business.com