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How to Find a Debtor's Assets in New York (Legally)

Banksy's a bloodhound, not a burglar. Here's how to find the money the right way. (General information, not legal advice.)

HomeGuides › How to Find a Debtor's Assets in New York (Legally)
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You can't collect what you can't find, but you have to find it lawfully. Skip anyone offering to hack accounts or buy private financial data; that's illegal and can sink your case.

The information subpoena (your best tool)

Once you have a judgment, an information subpoena (CPLR 5224) legally compels banks, employers, and the debtor to answer, under oath, where assets are.

Public records

Property ownership (New York City's ACRIS and county clerk records), business filings with the Department of State, and UCC filings can reveal real estate, business interests, and secured assets, all public.

What you already know

Where the debtor banks, works, or owns property; checks they've sent you; their business address. Write it all down.

Then strike

Once you've located assets, a restraining notice and levy (bank) or income execution (wages) turns information into payment.

FAQ

Is it legal to look up someone's assets?

Yes, through lawful channels: information subpoenas after a judgment, and public records. It is not legal to hack, impersonate, or buy private financial data.

Do I need a judgment to use an information subpoena?

The power to compel banks and employers comes with a judgment. Before that, you rely on public records and what you already know.

Can you find hidden assets?

Lawful tools surface a lot. Deliberately hidden assets are harder, but information subpoenas and public records frequently expose them.

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