Unclaimed money in Alabama

What counts as unclaimed property

Unclaimed property is money or items that businesses or government agencies have lost track of. It might be a forgotten bank account, uncashed check, insurance payout, utility deposit, or stock dividend. If no one claims it after a certain time (usually three to five years), it goes to the state.

Alabama holds onto this property and tries to return it to the rightful owner. The good news: it doesn't expire. You can claim it anytime.

How to search for unclaimed money

Start with the official Alabama Unclaimed Property search site at https://alabama.findyourunclaimedproperty.com/. This is run by the state and is free to use.

When you search, try different name variations:

• Your full legal name
• Nicknames or shortened versions (Bob instead of Robert)
• Maiden names if you changed yours
• Initials instead of full first or middle names

Also search using old addresses where you lived or worked. The property might be listed under an address from years ago.

If you find a match, write down the details: the business or agency that held the money, the amount (if shown), and the type of property.

How to file a claim

If the search site shows a result:

1. 1
   Step 1: Follow the instructions on the search results page. Usually you'll file your claim through the same website.
2. 2
   Step 2: Fill out the claim form with your name, address, and details about the property.
3. 3
   Step 3: Sign and submit it.

If you can't find instructions online, contact Alabama's Unclaimed Property Division for guidance on mailing a claim.

What proof you'll usually need

Alabama may ask for documents to prove the property is yours. Common proof includes:

• A government-issued ID (driver's license, passport)
• Old bank statements or account statements
• Utility bills showing your name and address
• Insurance documents or receipts
• Pay stubs or tax returns
• Letters from the business that held the money

Keep photocopies of everything you send. Don't mail original documents unless the state specifically asks for them.

The state decides who gets the money. Applying is free.

Claiming for a deceased relative

You can claim unclaimed property that belonged to someone who has died. You'll need:

• A copy of their death certificate
• Proof that you're entitled to inherit (a will, court order, or sometimes just proof you're the closest living relative)
• Your own ID

Rules vary depending on the amount and your relationship. Ask Alabama's Unclaimed Property Division what you need.

Protect yourself from scams

Never pay upfront. Real unclaimed property agencies don't charge fees to help you claim money. If someone asks for a percentage of your money before searching or filing, it's a scam.

Use the official site only. Go directly to https://alabama.findyourunclaimedproperty.com/. Don't click links in emails or texts claiming to help you find money.

Be wary of guarantees. No one can promise you'll find unclaimed property or that a claim will succeed. Only Alabama can decide eligibility.

Next steps

Start your search today at the official Alabama site. If you have questions about the process or can't find what you're looking for, contact the state directly for free help.

You might also have unclaimed money from other states if you've lived or worked elsewhere. Check our main unclaimed money page to search multiple states at once.