Unclaimed Inheritances Yield NT$73.85 Million for Taiwan Treasury in First Half

Taiwan's National Treasury Agency reported that it collected NT$73.85 million in surplus cash from unclaimed inheritances in the first half of 2026. A total of 21 cases were processed during this period, marking an increase in the number of cases but a decrease in the total amount collected compared to the previous year. The largest single sum received was over NT$26 million, while the smallest was a mere NT$3,677.

These unclaimed assets are fully incorporated into the national treasury, where they are allocated for the promotion of national affairs. The agency noted that between 2021 and 2025, the total amount collected from such inheritances exceeded NT$907 million, with 2022 seeing the highest collection at over NT$458 million.

According to Taiwan's Civil Code, if no heir claims an inheritance after a legally set period, the remaining assets, after debts and bequests are settled, revert to the national treasury. Typically, courts appoint estate administrators, such as lawyers or accountants, to manage and settle these estates. Any remaining cash is then submitted to the treasury, while non-cash assets are transferred to the National Property Administration.

The agency attributes the rise in unclaimed inheritances to societal changes, including an increase in people renouncing their inheritance rights, a lack of direct descendants or close relatives, and Taiwan's aging population and declining birth rate. The National Treasury Agency expressed its appreciation for the professional service and dedication of the estate administrators in managing these affairs and facilitating the transfer of assets to the treasury.