Across the United States, billions of dollars in "unclaimed property" are currently sitting in government accounts.
This money belongs to everyday people, but it remains uncollected because the owners either forgot about it or don't realize it exists.
What is Unclaimed Money?
Unclaimed money is cash or property owed to you (or a relative) that has been inactive for a long time. Common examples include:
- Forgotten bank accounts.
- Uncashed paychecks or tax refunds.
- Insurance payouts.
- Refunds from utility deposits.
- Stocks or bonds.
When a company or bank can’t find you to deliver these funds, they are legally required to hand the money over to the state government. The state then holds that money until the rightful owner claims it.
How to Search for Free
The most important thing to know is that you should never pay a fee to find your own money. While private companies may offer to find it for a price, you can do it yourself for free using official government tools.
1. Start with your state
Every state has an unclaimed property office with a searchable database. You can search by your name or address. If you have lived or worked in multiple states, be sure to check each one.
Pro Tip: Use MissingMoney.com. This is a free, official website endorsed by state governments that lets you search multiple state databases at once.
2. Check Federal databases
Some money is held at the national level. Depending on what you are looking for, check these official sites:
- TreasuryHunt.gov: For forgotten savings bonds or Treasury securities.
- IRS.gov: Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool if you think you missed a tax refund.
How to Avoid Scams
When searching online, always look for websites that end in .gov. Legitimate government agencies will not charge you a percentage of your money just to return it to you.
If a site asks for a payment to "release" your funds, it is likely a scam or a private service charging for something you can do yourself for free.
How to Claim Your Cash
If you find your name on a list, the process is usually simple:
- File a claim: Fill out a form on the official state or agency website.
- Verify your identity: You will likely need to provide basic info, like your social security number or proof of a former address, to prove the money is yours.
- Get paid: Once the state confirms your identity, they will send you the money via a check or electronic transfer.
The Bottom Line
It only takes a few minutes to search, and it costs nothing. Whether it’s a small utility refund or a large forgotten inheritance, that money belongs to you.
It is worth checking these official databases today to see if you have a surprise waiting for you.
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Read next: Social Security Payments During a Government Shutdown: What to Expect in February 2026
