Is there hidden money waiting for you? How to instantly check if you have unclaimed cash
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What if we told you there could be money out there with your name on it—just waiting for you to claim it? It sounds too good to be true, but for millions of Americans, it’s a real possibility.
In fact, more than $20 billion in unclaimed property is currently sitting in state and federal coffers, waiting for its rightful owners to come forward.
That’s right: forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts, refunds, and more could be yours for the taking.
What Is Unclaimed Property, Anyway?
Unclaimed property is any financial asset that has been abandoned or forgotten by its owner for a certain period of time (usually one to five years). This can include:
- Old bank or savings accounts
- Uncashed paychecks or dividend checks
- Refunds from utility companies or retailers
- Insurance policy payouts
- Stocks, bonds, or mutual funds
- Security deposits from rentals
- Safe deposit box contents
States are required by law to safeguard these assets until the rightful owner (or their heirs) comes forward.
According to the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA), one in seven Americans has unclaimed property. That means you—or someone you love—could be owed money and not even know it!
Why Does This Happen?
Life gets busy. Maybe you moved and forgot to update your address, or a check got lost in the mail.
Sometimes, people pass away and their heirs don’t know about all their accounts. Even if you’ve checked before, it’s worth looking again—states add new unclaimed property every year.
How to Search for Unclaimed Money—Step by Step
1. Start with the Official Sites
The best place to begin your search is with the official, free resources endorsed by state and federal agencies. Here’s how:
MissingMoney.com
This is the go-to site for most Americans. It’s a free, secure, multi-state database endorsed by NAUPA and the National Association of State Treasurers. Just enter your name and state to see if there’s anything waiting for you.
- Visit MissingMoney.com
- Enter your name and state(s) where you’ve lived or worked
- Review the results and follow the instructions to file a claim
Unclaimed.org
If your state isn’t listed on MissingMoney, check Unclaimed.org, which links directly to each state’s official unclaimed property program.
Pro Tip: Search every state you’ve lived in, and try variations of your name (maiden names, middle initials, etc.).
2. Check Federal Sources
While most unclaimed property is handled by states, some federal agencies also hold unclaimed funds:
US Department of the Treasury
3. Other Places to Look
Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
How to File a Claim (and What to Watch Out For)
If you find unclaimed property in your name, congratulations! Here’s what to do next:
1. Follow the instructions on the official site.
Each state or agency will have its own process, but you’ll usually need to provide proof of identity (like a driver’s license or Social Security number) and documentation showing your connection to the property (old addresses, account numbers, etc.).
2. Be patient.
Processing times can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the state and the complexity of your claim.
3. Never pay a fee to search or claim your money.
The official sites are always free. If someone asks for payment or personal information over the phone or email, it’s likely a scam.
Common Questions (and Answers!)
Q: What if I find money for a deceased relative?
A: Heirs can often claim property on behalf of a deceased loved one. You’ll need to provide proof of your relationship and, in some cases, legal documents like a will or death certificate.
Q: How often should I check?
A: Experts recommend checking at least once a year, as new property is added regularly.
Q: Can I search for friends or family?
A: Absolutely! Many people have found money for parents, siblings, or even old neighbors. It’s a great way to do a good deed.
Have you ever found unclaimed cash? Do you have tips for fellow readers? Let us know in the comments below! Happy hunting!
In fact, more than $20 billion in unclaimed property is currently sitting in state and federal coffers, waiting for its rightful owners to come forward.
That’s right: forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts, refunds, and more could be yours for the taking.
What Is Unclaimed Property, Anyway?
Unclaimed property is any financial asset that has been abandoned or forgotten by its owner for a certain period of time (usually one to five years). This can include:
- Old bank or savings accounts
- Uncashed paychecks or dividend checks
- Refunds from utility companies or retailers
- Insurance policy payouts
- Stocks, bonds, or mutual funds
- Security deposits from rentals
- Safe deposit box contents
States are required by law to safeguard these assets until the rightful owner (or their heirs) comes forward.
According to the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA), one in seven Americans has unclaimed property. That means you—or someone you love—could be owed money and not even know it!
Why Does This Happen?
Life gets busy. Maybe you moved and forgot to update your address, or a check got lost in the mail.
Sometimes, people pass away and their heirs don’t know about all their accounts. Even if you’ve checked before, it’s worth looking again—states add new unclaimed property every year.
How to Search for Unclaimed Money—Step by Step
1. Start with the Official Sites
The best place to begin your search is with the official, free resources endorsed by state and federal agencies. Here’s how:
MissingMoney.com
This is the go-to site for most Americans. It’s a free, secure, multi-state database endorsed by NAUPA and the National Association of State Treasurers. Just enter your name and state to see if there’s anything waiting for you.
- Visit MissingMoney.com
- Enter your name and state(s) where you’ve lived or worked
- Review the results and follow the instructions to file a claim
Unclaimed.org
If your state isn’t listed on MissingMoney, check Unclaimed.org, which links directly to each state’s official unclaimed property program.
Pro Tip: Search every state you’ve lived in, and try variations of your name (maiden names, middle initials, etc.).
2. Check Federal Sources
While most unclaimed property is handled by states, some federal agencies also hold unclaimed funds:
US Department of the Treasury
- For matured, uncashed savings bonds (over 30 years old), use Treasury Hunt.
- If you think you’re missing a federal tax refund, check the IRS Refunds page. You’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount.
- If you had a HUD or FHA-insured mortgage, you might be owed a refund. Check HUD’s refund database.
- If you think you’re owed back wages, search the Workers Owed Wages site.
3. Other Places to Look
Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
- For unclaimed pension benefits, visit PBGC’s search tool.
- The National Association of Insurance Commissioners can help you find lost life insurance policies.
How to File a Claim (and What to Watch Out For)
If you find unclaimed property in your name, congratulations! Here’s what to do next:
1. Follow the instructions on the official site.
Each state or agency will have its own process, but you’ll usually need to provide proof of identity (like a driver’s license or Social Security number) and documentation showing your connection to the property (old addresses, account numbers, etc.).
2. Be patient.
Processing times can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the state and the complexity of your claim.
3. Never pay a fee to search or claim your money.
The official sites are always free. If someone asks for payment or personal information over the phone or email, it’s likely a scam.
Common Questions (and Answers!)
Q: What if I find money for a deceased relative?
A: Heirs can often claim property on behalf of a deceased loved one. You’ll need to provide proof of your relationship and, in some cases, legal documents like a will or death certificate.
Q: How often should I check?
A: Experts recommend checking at least once a year, as new property is added regularly.
Q: Can I search for friends or family?
A: Absolutely! Many people have found money for parents, siblings, or even old neighbors. It’s a great way to do a good deed.
Have you ever found unclaimed cash? Do you have tips for fellow readers? Let us know in the comments below! Happy hunting!
