In a perfect world, all online reporting would be truly paperless. It is easier for the holders and for the states and saves many trees. So, why do some states require a hard copy? Why do some beg us to get the message out that they do not want a coversheet sent in at all? How can you tell whether you need to send a coversheet or not? Let’s break it down by reporting method.
UPExpress is an online portal that
ETM provides as a courtesy for those who do not use our full reporting systems. Even if you use another software provider, you have the ability to benefit from our groundbreaking delivery method. Some software providers even give a direct link to
UPExpress for their users to upload reports to the states. Once you have your NAUPA file and coversheet generated, you can go to the
UPExpress site to upload. When you choose the state for which you will be uploading,
UPExpress only asks for what is required. If you see a prompt to browse to where you have saved your coversheet, that is because the state requires one for upload. If you only see a prompt for the NAUPA file, it means that state does not require the coversheet.
These are ETM’s full unclaimed property reporting systems. When you run the State Report process and choose one of the 38 states that have an online filing agreement with us, the text on the screens will alert you to any special coversheet requirements.
For example, when running the Arizona report, the wording states, “By checking this box and clicking Submit, I authorize that my unclaimed property report be sent to the Arizona Department of Revenue. I acknowledge and understand that I need to mail the report payment and a hard copy of a signed report coversheet directly to the Department”. Unless you fly through the screens without paying attention, we’ve got you covered.
As of today, the following states require a hard copy coversheet even with our online filing: Arizona, Delaware, and Wyoming. These states have legislation in place that still requires a wet signature on a hard copy coversheet. Until their laws can be changed, the hard copy is required.
A couple of states DO NOT want coversheets at all. These are Tennessee and Virginia. If you send them a coversheet, it actually disrupts their processes.
Uploading Directly to a State Website
Some states have the ability to upload your report directly to their website. In fact, for a few states this is now the only acceptable method of report delivery. These states are Indiana, New York, Nevada, Texas, and Oklahoma. Coversheet requirements vary from state to state. It will be easy to decipher each state’s requirement based on if the upload process asks for you to upload a coversheet. Please follow the instructions carefully and contact the state directly if something is not clear.
Author: Danielle Herring
Product Manager, UPExchange
Labels: UP Reporting Tips
