Q: How to access a deceased uncle's unclaimed US bank account after 20 years?

A: Check the clerk's office (Estates) in the county where your relative last resided, to see if an estate was ever opened. If so, look to see if the account was distributed. Also, you can check online at NCCASH to see if the money was handed over to the state. If so, you'll need to follow the online instructions on how to access the money.

A: If the bank account has been unclaimed for 20 years, there’s a good chance the funds were turned over to the state as unclaimed property. In the U.S., banks are required to send dormant accounts to the state treasury or unclaimed property division after a certain period of inactivity—usually five years or less. The first step is to check the unclaimed property website for the state where your uncle lived or where the bank account was opened. You can search using your uncle’s full name and last known address.

If you do find the account listed, your cousin can begin the claim process through the state. This usually involves submitting proof of identity, a copy of the death certificate, and documentation showing the relationship to your uncle—such as a birth certificate or other family records. If your cousin is the closest living heir and no will exists, the state will typically follow intestate succession laws to determine who can claim the funds. It may take some time, but it’s a well-established process.

If the funds were never transferred to the state, then your cousin or a legal representative will need to contact Bank of America directly. The bank will likely request similar documents and may require probate to prove legal authority to claim the funds. You’re doing the right thing by helping your cousin through this, especially with the language barrier. Stay organized, keep copies of everything, and follow up until the process is complete.