Protect your shares from unclaimed property laws

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I protect my shares?

  The easiest way to protect your shares from being classified as unclaimed is to ensure you maintain regular contact with Computershare. This can be done by:

  • Logging into Investor Center
  • Cashing a check no matter how small the amount
  • Voting a proxy
  • Updating address and contact information
  • Buying or selling shares
  • Calling Computershare

  This will automatically update your “last contact date” with Computershare and reset the inactivity period on your account.

• How will I know if my shares are at risk?

  Computershare will always attempt to contact a shareholder if their shares are at risk of being classified as unclaimed. For this reason, it is important to update Computershare if your address or contact information changes. This ensures Computershare can contact you about your account if needed.

  We’re here to help! If you receive a letter from Computershare notifying you that your assets may be transferred to the state, it's important to follow the instructions in the letter within 45 days.

• What if the shareholder is deceased?

  You must call Computershare as soon as possible at the phone number listed on the back of your unclaimed property notice. Please call within 45 days of the date of the notice or the shares/funds will be in jeopardy of being transferred to the custody of the state. Speak with a representative or use our automated telephone system (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) to request a deceased transfer package. Note that the account may contain uncashed checks which should be re-issued. Have the notice available to identify the account when you call.

• How do I claim property that has already been transferred to the custody of the state?

  Contact your state’s Unclaimed Property Division to place a claim. If your property includes shares of stock, it may have been liquidated by the state. Once property has been delivered to certain states, all interest, dividends, income, and gain remain with the state, even if the owner reclaims the property.

  Visit the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) website to learn more about your state’s unclaimed property program.

• I have my dividends reinvested or delivered directly to my bank account. Does that count as “activity” or “contact”?

  Some states do not consider your receipt of a statement or the direct deposit of dividend funds as shareholder initiated “activity” or “contact”.

• Is there a fee to replace checks?

  There is no fee if you have direct deposit instructions on file for your account to receive the payment electronically. Some companies may charge a fee to reissue printed checks in the amount of 10% of the value of each replacement check, up to a maximum of $20. To have this fee waived, add your banking details first, prior to requesting your replacement check. To replace a lost check, click here.