How to Change Owners of Unclaimed Mineral Rights in Oklahoma

Exerting ownership of unclaimed mineral rights can be time consuming.

Unclaimed mineral rights are common in Oklahoma. If royalty payments for mineral rights are not able to be given to the right person, the funds are held in trust by the state. Once the funds are held in trust, another person or company can petition the state to declare the original owner "unlocatable" and the rights can be sold to the highest bidder. The process for exerting your right of ownership might require a little bit of effort, but the effort is well worth it.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Stationery supplies

Instructions

1. Go to the Oklahoma Public Land Records website and search for property records. You can search by last name and approximate time period. Enter your name or the name or relatives that you believe may have left you mineral rights.

2. Contact the county courthouse in the area where the mineral rights are and state the name and location of the well and your name and information. Be prepared to provide proof of your ownership of the mineral rights.

3. Follow the county's instructions for getting the ownership of the mineral confirmed in your name. Check for any past royalties that are being held in trust by the state and have those turned over to you as well.

References

• Oklahoma Mineral Rights; Information on Mineral Rights in Oklahoma
• The Board of Regents of the University of Oklahoma; Oil and Gas: Frequently Asked Questions:

Resources

• Oklahoma Public Land Records