HOW TO CLAIM UNCLAIMED FUNDS FROM THE INLAND REVENUE DEPARTMENT (IRD) AFTER A LOVED ONE PASSES AWAY

Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging time, and managing their financial affairs can add additional stress. One area that can often be overlooked is unclaimed money held by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). This money may be due to refunds, credits, or other amounts that were not paid out before your loved one passed away.

1. The easiest way to begin your search for unclaimed money is through your loved one’s myIR account.  This is the online portal for managing tax affairs with the IRD. If your loved one had a myIR account, you can access it if you have the necessary passwords to check for any unclaimed funds. Some people leave book of passwords.

2. IRD Unclaimed Money Tool. Visit the official IRD website and navigate to their unclaimed money tool. This tool allows you to search for any unclaimed funds under your loved one’s name. Apply for unclaimed money – Apply for unclaimed money – Inland Revenue

3. Contact IRD directly. You will first need to register through myTrove and then you can either send a message through your myIR account or give IRD a call.

Once you’ve identified unclaimed money, the next step is to submit a claim. To do this provide IRD with the death certificate, proof of your relationship to the deceased, your ID, and any other relevant documents.  Attach all evidence to your claim submission through the myIR account or webform on the IRD website. You can also post the relevant information to Inland Revenue, PO Box 39010, Wellington Mail Centre, Lower Hutt 5045. The IRD typically processes claims within 10-12 weeks. However, during periods of high demand, it may take longer.  If the IRD requires further information, they will contact you. Responding promptly will help avoid further delays. Once your claim has been processed, the IRD will notify you of the outcome. If your claim is successful, the funds will be transferred to the bank account you provided. Alternatively, you can request that the money be applied to any outstanding tax debts. IRD may require you to obtain administration for the estate before the funds can be distributed or before they will even talk to you.  If that is the case, I recommend seeking a lawyer who specializes in estates law to assist you.