Elbert County Unclaimed Funds

Elbert County unclaimed money goes to the state database run by Colorado's treasurer. About 26,000 people live in this rural county east of Denver. The county seat is in Kiowa. Even in a small county, people lose track of old accounts and checks. The Great Colorado Payback system holds these funds. Search for free at any time. No deadline exists for filing a claim. Money from 10 years ago or 40 years ago is still yours to get back.

Elbert County Government

Elbert County has a treasurer who handles property tax collection. The main county office is at 215 Comanche St in Kiowa, CO 80117. Phone is 303-621-3161. The Elbert County website has contact info for all departments. Office hours may vary due to the county's small staff size. Call ahead if you plan to visit in person to make sure the office is open.

The treasurer office does not manage unclaimed property directly. Any unclaimed funds from tax refunds or other county sources go to the state database. The Colorado Department of Property Taxation tracks each county treasurer through their locality page for Elbert County. This page shows contact details and what services the office provides.

If you think you have an unclaimed tax refund from Elbert County, start by searching the state database. Most old refunds end up there after a few years. You can also call the treasurer office to ask about old tax records. They may be able to look up past payments and tell you if a refund was sent to the state. The county clerk may also have old records that tie to property or business matters.

Search the State Database

All Elbert County residents use the Great Colorado Payback to search for lost funds. This state database includes unclaimed property from every county in Colorado. Old bank accounts, uncashed checks, and utility deposits all end up here. The site is free to use and takes just a few minutes. Type your name and see what comes up. Many people find money they forgot about from years ago.

Elbert County is rural with many farms and ranches. Unclaimed property may come from old co-op payments, equipment vendor refunds, or agricultural businesses. People who moved away from the county may have left behind accounts or uncashed checks. The state system holds all of it until you file a claim. No time limit exists for claiming your money.

To search, go to the state website and enter your name. The site shows all matches for your name across Colorado. Click on each match to see details like the amount and who holds the property. Some listings show an exact dollar amount. Others just say a range. Write down the property ID number for any claim you want to file. You need this number to complete the claim form.

Types of unclaimed property common in rural counties like Elbert include:

• Old bank accounts from local banks
• Uncashed paychecks from past employers
• Property tax refunds
• Utility deposits from rural electric co-ops
• Insurance policy payouts
• Agricultural co-op payments
• Mineral rights royalties

Elbert County has farming and ranching operations that may result in unclaimed property. If you or a family member farmed or ranched in the county, check for unclaimed funds tied to those businesses. Old vendor payments, co-op refunds, or equipment deposits may be sitting in the state system.

How to File a Claim

Filing a claim starts with finding your property in the state database. Once you see a match, create an account on the state website. The claim form asks for your name, address, and proof of identity. Upload a copy of your driver license or state ID. For most claims, this is enough to prove you are the right person. The state checks your documents and approves the claim if everything matches.

Some claims need more proof, especially for larger amounts or old properties. The state may ask for extra documents like old bank statements, pay stubs, or utility bills that show you lived at the address tied to the claim. Elbert County residents should gather any old records that link them to the unclaimed funds. If you lived in Kiowa, Elizabeth, or another part of the county years ago, bring mail or bills from that address.

Most claims get approved in a few weeks. The state sends a check to the address you give. There is no fee to claim your money. Colorado does not take any part of it. You get the full amount. If you need help with the claim process, call the state treasurer office. They have staff who can answer questions and help you fix problems with your claim.

Note: Claims for deceased relatives require proof that you are an heir or the executor of the estate.

Resources for Elbert County Residents

Elbert County has limited local services due to its rural nature and small population. The county clerk and treasurer offices can help with some questions about old records. If you think you have an unclaimed tax refund, call the treasurer at 303-621-3161. They may be able to check old records and tell you if a refund was sent to the state. The county clerk may also have old property records that tie to your search.

For internet access to search the state database, check with local libraries or community centers. Many rural areas have public computers you can use for free. If you need help with the search, ask staff for assistance. They can show you how to use the state website. Some older residents find it easier to search with help from someone who knows the site. The nearest full service libraries are in Castle Rock and Parker in Douglas County.

If you need legal help with a claim, contact an attorney in Elizabeth or a nearby town. Elbert County does not have many law firms due to its small size, but nearby counties do. For claims involving a deceased relative, you may need to go through probate court. The Elbert County Combined Court can tell you what steps to take. Their office is in Kiowa. Phone is 303-621-2121. They handle probate and estate matters for the county.

Nearby Counties

Elbert County borders several other counties on the eastern plains and Front Range. All use the same state system for unclaimed money. If you lived in more than one county, search once and see all your unclaimed property in one list.