Florida unclaimed property returns reached a record $58 million in September 2025, marking the highest monthly total in the state’s history. According to the Florida Department of Financial Services, this milestone highlights the continued efforts to reunite residents with dormant assets held by the state.
Understanding Florida Unclaimed Property
Unclaimed property in Florida refers to a range of financial assets that have been inactive or abandoned by their owners for a specific period. These assets include dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, stock dividends, utility deposits, refunds, and the contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes.
According to the Florida Department of Financial Services, businesses and government entities are required to hold these assets for a set period, typically five years. If the rightful owner cannot be located during this time, the property is transferred to the state for safekeeping.
Record-Breaking Returns in September 2025
In September 2025, Florida returned $58 million in unclaimed property to residents. This figure represents the largest monthly distribution on record, according to state officials. The returns were distributed across multiple regions, with significant amounts returned in:
- Miami: $12.6 million
- Tampa/St. Petersburg: $11.9 million
- West Palm Beach: $10.9 million
- Orlando: $10.8 million
Smaller sums were distributed to other areas across Florida. Officials attribute this record to increased public awareness and improvements in the efficiency of the state’s unclaimed property program.
How Assets Become Unclaimed Property
Unclaimed property often results from outdated contact information, forgotten accounts, or uncashed checks. In many cases, assets become unclaimed when owners pass away and heirs are unaware of their existence. The Florida Department of Financial Services reports that these situations are common, especially when individuals do not maintain up-to-date financial records or estate plans.
Common Types of Unclaimed Property
- Dormant savings and checking accounts
- Uncashed payroll or dividend checks
- Insurance policy proceeds
- Utility deposits and refunds
- Contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes
Claiming Unclaimed Property in Florida
According to official sources, Florida currently holds about $2 billion in unclaimed assets for residents. This is part of over $58 billion held nationwide by state governments. There is no statute of limitations for claiming unclaimed property in Florida, meaning rightful owners or their heirs can claim assets at any time.
However, the state does not pay interest on recovered funds. The process for claiming unclaimed property is accessible online and requires proof of identity and entitlement. Residents can search for their assets through the official Florida Treasure Hunt website, which is part of ongoing public awareness campaigns.
Steps to Claim Unclaimed Property
- Search for your name or business on the official state website
- Submit a claim with required documentation
- Provide proof of identity and entitlement
- Wait for the claim to be processed and approved
Officials recommend reviewing the requirements carefully to ensure a smooth claims process.
Consumer Protection and Public Awareness
Unclaimed property laws in Florida are designed to protect consumers and ensure assets are not permanently lost. The Florida Department of Financial Services runs public awareness campaigns, such as the “Florida Treasure Hunt,” to encourage residents to search for and recover their unclaimed property.
Experts advise maintaining updated financial records and estate plans to reduce the risk of assets becoming unclaimed. Proper estate planning and family communication are essential to ensure assets transfer smoothly to heirs and do not escheat to the state.
Why Public Awareness Matters
- Helps residents recover forgotten or unknown assets
- Reduces the amount of property held by the state
- Supports financial security for individuals and families
Ongoing Improvements in Florida’s Unclaimed Property Program
The record-setting returns in September 2025 reflect both increased public participation and enhancements in the state’s unclaimed property program. According to the Florida Department of Financial Services, improvements in digital access and outreach have made it easier for residents to search for and claim their assets.
Officials report that the program will continue to focus on efficiency and transparency, with additional efforts planned to reach more residents across the state. Details may be updated as the program evolves and new data becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Unclaimed Property
What is Florida unclaimed property?
Florida unclaimed property includes financial assets such as dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, and the contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes that have not been claimed by their rightful owners.
How much unclaimed property does Florida currently hold?
According to official sources, Florida is holding about $2 billion in unclaimed assets for residents as of 2025.
Are there time limits for claiming unclaimed property in Florida?
There is no statute of limitations for claiming unclaimed property in Florida. Owners or their heirs can claim assets at any time, though the state does not pay interest on recovered funds.
Can you search for and claim unclaimed property online?
Yes, residents can search for and claim unclaimed property online through the official Florida Treasure Hunt website by providing proof of identity and entitlement.
Where are the largest amounts of unclaimed property returned in Florida?
In September 2025, the largest returns were in Miami, Tampa/St. Petersburg, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, with smaller amounts distributed throughout other regions of the state.
