Unclaimed Property
Unclaimed property refers to property that is presumed abandoned because it remains unclaimed by its owner for a specified period of time ("dormancy period"). Typical unclaimed properties with the University are check payments and wages. While each state defines differently the dormancy periods for unclaimed properties, such periods are generally between one to five years. For example, the Illinois dormancy period for unclaimed wages is one year; after one year of being unclaimed, wages are presumed abandoned. Once the dormancy period is fulfilled, the unclaimed property is given over to the state treasurer's office. Any person attempting to claim such property must do so through the state treasurer's office. ( | )
For 2018 and onward, Tax and Regulatory Services manages the unclaimed property process.
Questions related to your specific letter or the process in general can be sent to Tax and Regulatory Services. Please contact the office via email or phone; visiting the office will not result in immediate payment or resolution of questions or issues.
Contact
taxandregulatoryservices@northwestern.edu
847.467.4210