Where to search Tennessee's official unclaimed property list for free, what happens to forgotten safe-deposit boxes there, and whether the money is still yours after a sale.
Official search · checked Oct 19, 2026
Safe-deposit boxes
No. The state doesn't hold its own auction of box contents. Tennessee's Treasury guide for banks quotes the state law: when box rent goes unpaid, the bank opens the box, stores the contents at least a year, and may then offer them for sale. The proceeds, less expenses, unpaid rent and storage, are transferred to the State Treasurer.
Sources: Treasury guide for banks and financial institutions (PDF) ↗
Read the full Tennessee auction guide: who runs it, how often, past sales and where to bid.
After a sale
Tennessee banks may sell box contents after storing them at least a year; the proceeds, less expenses, rent and storage, go to the State Treasurer. source ↗
So search Tennessee's official list for the cash the same way you would for any other unclaimed property.
How to check
Finders
No. NAUPA, the national association of state unclaimed property administrators, says there's no fee to search for and claim your property if you use your state's official program. Paid finders are legal in most cases but never required. Some states cap their fees and many require them to register, so check with the state office before you sign a finder's contract. NAUPA ↗
Keep reading
This page points you to official sources. It isn't legal or financial advice; the state office decides every claim.
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