Unclaimed money in Colorado

What counts as unclaimed property in Colorado

Unclaimed money is cash or property that a company or government agency owes you but can't reach you to return it. In Colorado, unclaimed property includes:

• Uncashed checks from your employer or a government agency
• Money in dormant bank accounts or safe deposit boxes
• Unused gift cards or store credits
• Insurance payouts or refunds
• Utility deposits
• Tax refunds
• Wages owed to you

If the company or agency hasn't heard from you in a set time (usually 3 to 5 years), they must turn the money over to the state. The state holds it until you claim it—there's no time limit to file.

How to search for unclaimed money in Colorado

The official search tool is run by the Colorado State Treasurer's office. To search:

1. 1
   Step 1: Go to https://colorado.findyourunclaimedproperty.com/
2. 2
   Step 2: Enter your first and last name
3. 3
   Step 3: Click search

Try different versions of your name if your first search doesn't work. Search for:

• Your full first name and last name
• Nicknames or shortened versions (Bob instead of Robert)
• Maiden names if you've been married
• Middle names or initials

If you've moved several times, the money might be listed under an old address. The search tool will show results with old addresses attached.

Searching is free. Only the official state website and the state treasurer can tell you if you really qualify to claim money.

How to file a claim

When you find a match:

1. 1
   Step 1: Click on the property listing to see the details
2. 2
   Step 2: Follow the instructions to file your claim
3. 3
   Step 3: Submit any proof the state asks for (see below)
4. 4
   Step 4: Wait for the state to review and approve your claim

Filing a claim is free. Never pay anyone to help you claim unclaimed money.

Proof you usually need

The state may ask you to prove you're the rightful owner. Common documents include:

• Your government ID or driver's license
• Documents showing your address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement)
• Documents tied to the unclaimed money (bank statements, old paychecks, receipts)
• A death certificate (if claiming for someone who has died)

Keep copies of everything you send. The state will tell you what specific proof it needs based on the type and amount of property.

Claiming for a deceased relative

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

• A copy of their death certificate
• Proof that you're an heir or have legal authority to claim (like a will or court order)
• Your government ID

The rules depend on your relationship to the person and the amount of money. Contact the Colorado State Treasurer's office for details about your situation.

Avoid scams

Be cautious of:

• Websites that look like the official search tool but have a slightly different web address
• Companies that promise to find your money for a fee
• Emails or calls claiming you've won unclaimed money
• Requests for payment upfront

The official Colorado search site is free. The state treasurer will never ask you to pay to claim your own money.

What happens next

After you file, the state reviews your claim. This can take weeks or months depending on how busy the office is and how much proof you need to submit. The state will contact you if it needs more information.

Once approved, the state will send you a check or deposit the money into your bank account.

Other places to check

If you don't find money in Colorado, you may have unclaimed property in another state where you've lived or worked. You can search multiple states at https://unclaimed.org/search/.