Genealogists play an important role in solving unclaimed person cases.
NOKfinders team of volunteer genealogists find next of kin (NOK) to and prevent unclaimed persons.
Explore What We Do
Investigating Agencies
NOKfinders Research Services
Genealogy services to support unclaimed remains cases.
Researchers
NOKfinders Academy
Are you interested building your skills in Forensic Genealogy while contributing to important work?
U.S. Unclaimed, Missing & Unidentified
Our Nation’s Silent Mass Disaster
21,588*
Unclaimed Person Cases (01/09/2026)
26,048*
Missing Person Cases (01/09/2026)
15,518*
Unidentified Persons (01/09/2026)
*
Data from NamUs
https://namus.nij.ojp.gov/
NOKfinders Team
Research Team
NOKfinders has over 20 researchers and several Certified Genealogists (CG®) dedicated to providing professional, confidential genealogy.
Seeking Academy Members
Board of Directors
NOKfinders Board of Directors – details coming soon
Frequently Asked Questions
What primary services do you offer?
We provide professional research services to identify next of kin when a person dies. Using genealogy, we are able to start with basic information (name, birth date, location) on the decedent and identify for next of kin and their contact information. All researchers adhere to the Association of Professional Genealogists Code of Ethics and Professional Practice.
What do you specialize in?
We specialize in Unclaimed Person Cases where the decedent’s identity is known.
Who do you work with?
We work with investigating authorities including: Medical Examiners, Funeral Homes, Coroners.
What is an Unclaimed Person Case?
A person becomes unclaimed when they pass away and next of kin do not claim their remains. This occurs for many reasons. The next of kin may be financially unable to pay the expenses associated with claiming the remains. The family may have been estranged from the decedent and is not interested in claiming the remains. The next of kin may be unaware their family member had passed. NOKfinders helps agencies locate next of kin to ensure they have the opportunity to claim their family member.
What are the rates of your research services?
NOKfinders’ goal is to support authorities in preventing unclaimed person cases. Please contact us to learn how we can support you through our pro bono services.
What is NOKfinders Academy?
Aspiring professional forensic genealogists are eligible to apply to NOKfinders Academy. The Academy provides support and mentoring as you work on live cases to further develop skills.