Every year, millions of dollars in financial assets are turned over to the states as unclaimed property – from uncashed checks, shares, dormant bank accounts, mutual funds, and more. Most people aren't aware that their financial assets can be flagged as unclaimed and escheated to a state (and ultimately sold) without their knowledge or consent. This series highlights the specific actions individuals can take to keep their financial accounts active and avoid having their property turned over to a state as unclaimed. We’ve created this video series, designed for the general public, to speak in plain terms about the basic rules for unclaimed property so that more people can keep what's theirs as the rightful owner.
Introduction and welcome
Welcome to “Keep What’s Yours”, an informational video series to help you prevent your financial assets from being turned over to a state as unclaimed property.
What assets could become unclaimed property?
A discussion of what assets are subject to unclaimed property requirements and why your assets might be considered “abandoned” or “unclaimed”.
A real-life story of escheatment
A real-life example of escheatment, and how the value of a gift of stock varied among three nephews.
The importance of contact
A discussion of why "contact" is so important and why you need to open your mail.
Keeping your stock accounts active
A discussion of how to keep your stock accounts active, and prevent your investments from becoming unclaimed property.
Keeping your bank accounts active
A discussion of how to keep your bank accounts (checking, savings, CDs) active, and prevent your investments from becoming unclaimed property.
Common misconceptions: Don’t make these mistakes
Discover some misconceptions that can lead people to believe their financial property is not subject to escheatment when, in fact, their assets could be at risk.
Can a state really sell my shares?
Learn what happens to your shares of stock after they are reported and turned over to a state as unclaimed property.
Disclaimer: These videos do not constitute legal, financial, accounting or any other advice. They are presented for informational purposes only. Everyone is urged to consult with their own attorneys and advisors. The analysis and opinions expressed herein are those of the presenters and do not necessarily represent the views of Computershare, its affiliates, its officers or directors. Information about how to avoid escheatment is available at www.unclaimed.org
Get the word out!
Be sure to share the Keep What’s Yours video series with your friends, family, and connections.