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At the end of December 2006, approximately 845,000 unclaimed balances, worth some $294 million, were on the Bank's books. Over 88% of these were under $500, representing 22% of the total value outstanding. The oldest balance dates back to 1900.
An "unclaimed balance" is a Canadian-dollar deposit or negotiable instrument, issued or held by a federally regulated bank or trust company. It can be in the form of a deposit account, bank draft, certified cheque, deposit receipt, money order, GIC, term deposit, credit card balance, or traveller's cheque.
When there has been no owner activity in relation to the balance for a period of 10 years, and the owner cannot be contacted by the institution holding it, the balance is turned over to the Bank of Canada, which acts as custodian on behalf of the owner.
Use the search form to find unclaimed balances. If you are unable to use this form, you can also contact us by email, telephone, fax, or regular mail.
Due to the passing of Bill C-37 the following rules came into effect March 29th 2007.