Unclaimed money in Arizona

Unclaimed money in Arizona can include forgotten bank accounts, utility deposits, insurance payouts, and paychecks. The state holds this money until you claim it. Here's how to search for and claim what's yours.

Search for unclaimed money

Start with the Arizona Unclaimed Property search. This is the official state database where Arizona holds unclaimed property.

Tips for searching

• Search under your full name and common variations (like "Robert" and "Bob").
• Try old addresses where you lived when the account was active.
• Search under a spouse's name if you had joint accounts.
• If nothing appears, try again in a few months—Arizona regularly adds new records.

What counts as unclaimed property

Arizona's unclaimed property includes:

• Dormant bank accounts and savings accounts
• Uncashed paychecks
• Utility deposits
• Insurance policy refunds
• Stocks and dividends
• Refunds owed by retailers
• Safe deposit box contents

How to file a claim

If you find your name in the search results:

1. 1
   Step 1: Note the name of the holder (the bank, company, or organization that has your money).
2. 2
   Step 2: Go to the Arizona Unclaimed Property website for claim instructions.
3. 3
   Step 3: You can usually file your claim online or by mail.
4. 4
   Step 4: Fill out the claim form completely with your contact information and details about the account.
5. 5
   Step 5: Sign and date the form.

Proof you usually need

Arizona may ask for documents to prove you own the money. Common proof includes:

• A government-issued photo ID
• A Social Security number
• Bank statements or account statements from the holder
• Old utility bills or lease agreements showing your address
• Letters or documents from the original account holder

Each case is different. The state will tell you what documents they need when you file your claim.

Claiming for a deceased relative

You can claim unclaimed property left by someone who has died. You'll need:

• A death certificate
• Proof that you're the legal heir (like a will, court order, or letter of administration)
• Identification showing you are related

Contact the Arizona Unclaimed Property office directly through the website for specific instructions on claiming for a deceased person.

Avoid scams

Be careful of services that charge a fee to find or claim your unclaimed money. You don't need to pay anyone—searching and claiming is free. Scammers often:

• Call or email claiming they found unclaimed money in your name
• Ask you to pay a fee upfront to release the funds
• Pressure you to act quickly
• Ask for personal information like your Social Security number by phone

Always search the official state website yourself. If you have questions, contact Arizona's Unclaimed Property office through that same website.

What happens next

After you file your claim, the state will review it. This can take several weeks or months. The holder of the money will verify that you own it. Once approved, the state will send you your money by check or direct deposit.

Applying for unclaimed property is free. Only Arizona's Unclaimed Property office decides whether you qualify based on the documents you provide.

Start your search today at the official Arizona Unclaimed Property site.