Unclaimed Money: How to Search Every State’s Official Site for Free

When a bank account, final paycheck, refund, insurance payout or deposit goes unclaimed, the business must hand it to the state. The state keeps it safe until the owner claims it. Searching is free, and claiming is free too.

Why money ends up unclaimed

Unclaimed property includes more than forgotten savings accounts. It can also be:

• Final paychecks
• Tax refunds
• Insurance payouts
• Deposits you left with a business
• Stocks or bonds
• Utility refunds

Money becomes unclaimed when a company cannot reach you after a set period of time. The company then sends it to your state's treasurer or comptroller, where it waits for you to claim it. States currently hold billions of dollars in unclaimed property.

How to search for unclaimed money

Start with the state where you live now. Use the official link in the table below.

Then search every state where you have lived or worked. Money is typically sent to the state of your last known address, so you may find property in places you haven't lived recently.

Try variations of your name. Search using:

• Your maiden name
• Initials instead of your full first or middle name
• Common misspellings of your name

Search for a business if you owned one. Search for a deceased relative if you are their heir and may inherit unclaimed property.

How to claim unclaimed money

The process is usually straightforward:

1. Find your name in a state's unclaimed property database.
2. File a claim on the state's website.
3. Upload proof of your identity (such as a driver's license).
4. Upload proof of your old address (such as a utility bill or lease).
5. Wait for the state to verify your claim and send you the money.

Each state handles claims differently, so check the specific requirements on your state's unclaimed property website.

Official unclaimed property search links by state

These links come from the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA), the official organization that manages unclaimed property programs across all states.

Common mistakes to avoid

Only search official state websites. Third-party websites that claim to search unclaimed money for you may charge hidden fees or direct you to scams. Use only the official links above.

Don't give up after one search. If you don't find money on your first try, search again in a few months or years. Unclaimed property is added to state databases regularly.

Search under all variations of your name. Many people find matches only when they search under a maiden name or a nickname.

Get help finding other money owed to you

Unclaimed property is just one type of money you may be owed. Use our benefits screener to find out what other government money you may qualify for, including tax credits, refunds and assistance programs.