Unclaimed Property Data Matching Process

1. ​​ I received a check that says "Notice of Claim Refund" for Unclaimed Property. Why did I get this?
   
   
2. May I cash the check?
   
   
3. I received a letter about "Action Required." Why did I get this?
   
   
4. What is Unclaimed Property? How is property turned over to the State of Wisconsin?
   
   
5. I found property that belongs to me when I searched your website. Why do I still have to file a claim for this property?
   
   

1. I received a check that says "Notice of Claim Refund" for Unclaimed Property. Why did I get this?

   The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) can compare unclaimed property information to tax records. If we find an unclaimed property owner by using this matching program, and the value of their unclaimed property is $2,000 or less, we automatically issue a refund check to the unclaimed property owner.

2. May I cash the check?

   Yes! To verify the check is authentic, go to our Check Your Claim Status page. Enter the Claim Number from your Notice of Claim Refund letter that accompanied the check.

3. I received a letter about "Action Required​​." Why did I get this?

   The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) can compare unclaimed property information to tax records. If we find an unclaimed property owner by using this matching program, and the value of their unclaimed property is more than $2,000 or is tangible property (safe deposit box contents, US Savings Bonds or shares of securities), we issue an Action Required letter so that the owner knows the department is safely holding this property. You can submit a claim to receive your funds. Follow the instructions on page 1 of your notice, or you can also visit My Tax Account to respond to Notice of Unclaimed Property.

4. What is Unclaimed Property? How is property turned over to the State of Wisconsin?

   See our Unclaimed Property Common Questions page for general information about unclaimed property.

5. I found property that belongs to me when I searched your website. Why do I still have to file a claim for this property?

   We want to make certain we return property to the rightful owner. Property can only be returned through the matching process if we are able to match unclaimed property owner information against the agency's tax records. You can submit a claim. See our Unclaimed Property Common Questions page for information about how to file a claim.

Applicable Laws and Rules

This document provides statements or interpretations of the following laws and regulations enacted as of February 2, 2021: Sections 177.02, 177.19 and 177.24, Wis. Stats.

Laws enacted and in effect after February 2, 2021, new administrative rules, and court decisions may change the interpretations in this document. Guidance issued prior to February 2, 2021, that is contrary to the information in this document is superseded by this document, pursuant to sec. 73.16(2)(a), Wis. Stats.

The department welcomes your input on our guidance. Submit comments on this guidance document.​​

Guidance Document Number: 100085

February 2, 2021