Key takeaways
- Search every state you've ever lived in — plus federal databases, which are separate.
- All official searches and claims are free. Never pay to find or release your own money.
- Try name variations and search relatives; heirs can claim with documentation.
- Anyone contacting you about money they "found" and asking a fee or SSN is a scam.
Step 1: Start with state unclaimed property
When companies can't reach you — old bank accounts, security deposits, uncashed paychecks, insurance payouts, forgotten brokerage shares — state law eventually requires them to hand the money to the state's unclaimed property office, which holds it for you indefinitely in most states.
- Find your state's official search through unclaimed.org (the state programs' own association).
- Search many states at once at MissingMoney.com, then still check individually any state not covered.
- Search every state you've lived, worked, or held accounts in — and try maiden names, middle initials, and misspellings.
Step 2: Check the federal sources (they're separate)
- Savings bonds: matured, unredeemed bonds at TreasuryDirect.gov
- Pensions: unclaimed pensions from ended plans at PBGC.gov
- Tax refunds: undelivered refunds via IRS.gov/refunds — and if you didn't file in a low-income year, you may still claim credits like the EITC by filing late; see our payments & credits guide
- Bank/credit union failures: FDIC and NCUA maintain unclaimed deposit lists from closed institutions
Step 3: Filing your claim
Claims go to the office holding the money. Expect to provide identity proof, proof of connection to the listed address (old bills, tax records), and documentation matching the account. Simple claims often pay within a few weeks; complex ones (securities, estates) take longer. Everything is done directly with the state or federal office — no intermediary needed.
Step 4: Claiming for family members
Heirs can claim a deceased relative's property with a death certificate and proof of heirship (will, probate documents, or the state's small-estate affidavit). Searching parents' and grandparents' names — including their previous states — is one of the most productive searches people skip.
Scams to avoid
- Finder fees for nothing: paid "locators" can be legal, but they only search the same free databases. You never need one.
- Cold contact: letters or calls claiming they've found your money and need a fee or your SSN first — verify directly with your state office instead.
- Look-alike sites: official searches end in .gov or are linked from unclaimed.org. Type addresses yourself.
Full patterns in our scam warnings guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the state keep my money?
Most states hold it indefinitely — property from decades ago remains claimable.
Is unclaimed money taxable?
The principal usually isn't (it was yours already); interest earned may be. For larger claims, confirm with a tax professional.
How often should I search?
Yearly. New property is turned over constantly — a calendar reminder each January is plenty.
General information, not legal or tax advice — see our disclaimers.