How to find unclaimed property in Colorado

Abandoned property in the state of Colorado is turned over to the state and they publish a list annually. The list is called the “Great Colorado Payback” list. While most states allow users to type in a last name and search the list of property available to property owners who share that name, Colorado requires users to put the name of the property owner into a form and this will return a list of matches or near matches. However, this is not the only way to find abandoned property in Colorado, there are other methods as well.

At least one time per year, the Great Colorado Payback list is published online. In addition, this list is made available at public library branches, the offices of county treasurers and the offices of state legislators. In addition, the list is distributed to all newspapers in the state.

The State Treasurer also has additional proactive measures they use to find rightful property owners. One of these methods is using public events such as the Colorado State Fair. At these public events, the State Treasurer has the list and claimants may obtain forms to file claims on the spot.  In addition, notices are sent out annually to thousands of owners if the State Treasurer is able to find a new address for the owner.

Colorado also allows account owners and heirs to contact the original institution to retrieve property. Banks, credit unions, broker dealers or any other entity that has turned assets over to the state may
retrieve those assets on behalf of the owner or heirs of the owner.

Filing claim requirements

When filing a claim, at a minimum the claimant will have to provide a social security number (or an EIN in the case of business) and proof of address for at least the prior five years. In the case that funds are being claimed by an heir other legal documents including a death certificate may be required.

Time to file a claim

Like all states, Colorado has no statute of limitations on filing a claim. Funds that are turned over to the state are held for the benefit of the owner or the estate or heirs of the owner. One unique thing about Colorado, the funds are placed in interest bearing accounts during the time they are held by the state. The interest earned on these accounts is used to fund Colorado Uninsurable Health Insurance Program (CUHIP), which is used to help subsidize insurance for those who have unusually high rates, cannot afford insurance or are unable to obtain insurance due to pre-exising conditions.

Those who reside in Colorado or those who have had family members who lived in Colorado may contact the State Treasurer at (303) 866-2441 or by email at treasurer.stapleton@state.co.us if they have reason to believe they may have property being held in Colorado. They may also search the database using the property owner search feature.