What Are Some Examples of the Unclaimed Funds Held by the County Auditor?
Funds held in the County Unclaimed Funds account are:
- Vendor Payments
- Child Support Payments
- Lost Heir Accounts
- Proceeds from Sheriff’s Sale
- Restitution Payments
- Jury/Witness Fees
What Are Some Examples of Proof of Claim?
A clear photocopy of a document with the original owner’s name and Social Security number on it, such as the Social Security card, driver’s license, or State of Ohio ID REQUIRED FOR ALL CLAIMS (note: The Social Security number will be held in the strictest confidence and used only to establish rightful ownership of the unclaimed funds.) The original check(s) IF AVAILABLE.
If I Am Not the Original Owner, or the Owner Is Deceased, How Do I Prove the Claim?
First, you must show that the account belonged to the original owner (see #2 proof of claim). Second, you must prove that you are the rightful recipient of the funds, and you are legally entitled to claim these funds for the owner, such as if the owner is incapacitated or deceased. If the owner is incapacitated, proper documentation from the Court to show a guardianship, custodial, or Power of Attorney relationship, and a court order, or permission from the guardian or custodian is required.
If the original owner is deceased, a copy of the death certificate and letter of authority naming the executor of the estate is required. We will not pay a claim based solely upon a will or death certificate. If a paid, professional finder is claiming the funds, a Power of Attorney signed by the executor is also required. (NOTE: The Geauga County Auditor’s Office reserves the right to contact the original payee directly to confirm a Power of Attorney).
Will I Be Entitled to Interest?
Interest is not paid on any account.
Will I Be Charged a Fee?
The Geauga County Auditor’s Office does not charge a fee to claim funds. If you have contracted with a professional finder to claim your funds you may be subject to pay a fee to them according to your contract.
Where Can I Find a Notary?
A Notary Public can be found at your local bank, city and county offices, police and sheriff’s departments, or most attorneys.
How Long Will It Take to Get My Funds?
Once the claim form is received in our office, processing takes approximately 7 – 14 business days.
What Is a Paid, Professional Finder?
A paid, professional finder is someone who is in the business of trying to find the owners of unclaimed funds. You do not have to use a finder to file a claim.
If I Use a Paid, Professional Finder to Claim My Funds, Where Will the Check Be Mailed?
The check is issued in the name of the paid, professional finder and the owner of the funds. The check is then mailed to the paid, professional finder. The Geauga County Auditor’s office does not hire paid, professional finders or any other third party to help locate the owner of unclaimed fund.
