Frequently asked questions
Answers about lookup, claims, verification, and your protection.
How do I look up a name?
Use the search field on the home page or open a state ledger and filter by holder name. Lookup is free and requires no account.
Does filing a claim cost anything?
No. CivicHold does not charge a fee to search, file, verify, or appeal. Anyone who asks for an upfront payment to release funds is not this service.
What documents will I need?
Claims require identity verification and supporting documentation — for example proof of identity, proof of address, or correspondence for the record in question.
What should I never send?
Never send a Social Security number, tax ID, passport number, driver's license number, bank account, card number, or crypto-wallet key through this site or the assistance desk chat.
How is my personal information protected?
Personal data is encrypted at rest and in transit, access-controlled, and audited. Form contents are not logged in plain text. See the privacy policy.
How do I track my claim?
After filing you receive a claim reference such as CH-2026-7K4P2M. Use it on the "Track a claim" page to see your timeline, add documents, or appeal a denial.
How long does review take?
Review times vary by state and by the completeness of the claim. You will see the current stage on your claim dashboard, and you can add documents while the claim is pending.
Can I appeal a denial?
Yes. A denied claim may be appealed within 30 days. The appeal is assigned to a different reviewer and the decision on appeal is final.
Is this a federal government site?
No. CivicHold is a state property claims service covering records reported by the fifty states. State offices make the final decisions under applicable state law.
Who do I contact for help?
Use the assistance desk widget for general questions, or check your claim dashboard for claim-specific help.