This blog was last updated on August 5, 2025
The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) has approved a major update to their electronic reporting standards with the introduction of the NAUPA III file format. This significant advancement in unclaimed property reporting represents a modernization effort that aims to streamline the submission process while improving accuracy and efficiency for all stakeholders involved in reuniting owners with their assets.
What Is the NAUPA III File Format?
The NAUPA III file format is the latest version of NAUPA electronic reporting standards, marking a transition from traditional fixed-width data structures to XML (Extensible Markup Language). This new unclaimed property file format update is designed to provide greater flexibility and user-friendliness while maintaining the highest standards of data accuracy and integrity. The NAUPA III XML format represents a significant step forward in modernizing unclaimed property compliance processes across all jurisdictions.
Key Changes in the NAUPA III Format
The NAUPA III file format introduces several critical improvements to unclaimed property reporting:
XML-Based Structure: The most significant change is the shift from the previous fixed-width format to the NAUPA III XML format. This transition makes the format more flexible and user-friendly, allowing for better data validation and easier integration with modern systems.
Enhanced Data Elements: The updated format includes refined data elements with clearer descriptions and improved codes. These enhancements are designed to help property holders submit more accurate reports while enabling states to better locate rightful owners of unclaimed assets.
Improved Validation: The NAUPA III XML schema provides better data validation capabilities, reducing errors and improving the overall quality of unclaimed property reporting submissions.
NAUPA III Implementation Timeline
Understanding the implementation timeline is crucial for unclaimed property compliance planning:
Initial Rollout: Jurisdictions are expected to begin accepting NAUPA III file format submissions in Fall 2026 at the earliest. This timeline allows organizations adequate time to prepare for the transition and update their systems accordingly.
Transition Period: The NAUPA III format will run alongside the existing NAUPA II format during a transition period, ensuring continuity in unclaimed property reporting while organizations adapt to the new requirements.
Jurisdiction-Specific Information: Organizations can verify accepted formats for their specific jurisdiction at unclaimed.org/state-reporting, as implementation may vary by state.
Resources and Support from NAUPA
To facilitate a smooth transition to the NAUPA III file format, NAUPA is providing comprehensive support:
XML Schema Definition (XSD) Files: NAUPA will provide NAUPA III XML schema files that offer detailed guidance for creating and validating XML submissions before filing. These resources ensure proper formatting and reduce submission errors.
Training and Education: The organization has committed to providing upcoming training sessions and additional resources to help property holders adapt to the new NAUPA electronic reporting requirements.
Technical Documentation: Comprehensive documentation will be available to support the implementation of the NAUPA III XML format, including best practices and troubleshooting guides.
How Sovos Is Supporting Clients Through the Transition
Sovos is committed to ensuring a seamless transition to the NAUPA III file format for all our clients:
Comprehensive Format Review: Our team is actively reviewing the new NAUPA III format specifications and all supplementary resources provided by NAUPA to ensure seamless integration for our clients’ unclaimed property reporting needs.
Training Participation: We will participate in the upcoming NAUPA training sessions to gain comprehensive insights into the format requirements and best practices, ensuring our team is fully prepared to support client implementations.
Client Support and Resources: Sovos will provide a detailed summary of the key components and changes in the NAUPA III file format to help our clients prepare for this transition and maintain compliance with evolving unclaimed property reporting standards.
Ongoing Compliance Support: Our commitment extends beyond the initial transition, with ongoing support to ensure continued compliance with NAUPA electronic reporting requirements as they evolve.
The introduction of the NAUPA III file format represents a significant advancement in unclaimed property compliance technology. By staying informed about these changes and working with experienced partners like Sovos, organizations can ensure they remain compliant while benefiting from the improved efficiency and accuracy that the new XML-based format provides.