Forgotten Money Could Be Waiting in Your Name
An old bank account, insurance payment, paycheck or refund may still belong to you—even if you have forgotten about it.
Money becomes unclaimed when a business, government agency or financial institution cannot deliver it to the rightful owner. After a certain period, the funds may be transferred to a state unclaimed-property office for safekeeping.
Most unclaimed property is held by state governments. Search the official database for every state where you have lived, worked or operated a business. You may also be able to claim property that belonged to a deceased relative if you are the legal heir.
Different types of missing money require different searches. The U.S. government provides resources for unpaid wages, forgotten pensions, FHA mortgage-insurance refunds, tax refunds, matured savings bonds and funds from failed financial institutions.
Searching government databases is generally free. Avoid companies demanding large upfront payments to reveal or recover money. Never share banking information, your Social Security number or identification documents with an unverified website.
Search using your current name, previous names and former addresses. Check again occasionally because businesses continue transferring new property to states.
