Comment by Suppafly
>From what I can recall, it was complicated by the fact that I wasn't "next of kin", which would limit the data I'd have access to.
My state has a process for claiming unclaimed funds that banks and such report to the government and that is what is keeping me from claiming some funds my grandmother has listed on the site. It's not even clear to me what constitutes 'next of kin' legally, presumably it'd be one of her kids, but it's not like we have laws designating the oldest male heir and then on down the list.
Your state should have information on their unclaimed property page to contact someone who can explain what documentation is necessary to establish legal order next of kin chain from your ancestor to whomever is claiming the property they are acting as custodian for. Call them! Most are usually very helpful.