Unclaimed money in Delaware

Unclaimed money in Delaware includes bank accounts, insurance payouts, wages, and other assets that have been inactive for a set period. If you think money is owed to you, you can search for free on Delaware's official unclaimed property website.

Search for unclaimed money in Delaware

Start at the Delaware Unclaimed Property search site. The search is free and takes just a few minutes.

Tips for searching:

• Search under your full legal name first. Then try variations like your maiden name, middle name only, or initials.
• Search under old addresses where you lived or worked, not just your current one.
• If you had a business, search under the business name.
• Search for deceased relatives if you are the heir (see below).
• Try different spelling variations of your last name.

What counts as unclaimed property

Delaware holds unclaimed money from:

• Abandoned bank and savings accounts
• Uncashed checks and wages
• Insurance policy payouts
• Stock dividends and refunds
• Utility deposits
• Court settlements and judgments
• Safe deposit box contents

Property is usually reported as unclaimed if no activity occurs for three to five years, depending on the type of asset.

File a claim for unclaimed money

If you find property in your name:

1. 1
   Step 1: Note the holder's name (the bank, company, or organization that has your money).
2. 2
   Step 2: Gather proof of ownership. See "What to bring" below.
3. 3
   Step 3: Contact the holder directly or file a claim through Delaware's unclaimed property program. The official website has instructions for claiming.
4. 4
   Step 4: Submit your claim with supporting documents.

Applying is free. Only Delaware decides if you qualify.

What to bring

To claim unclaimed money, you usually need to prove who you are and that the money is yours. Typical proof includes:

• A government-issued ID (driver's license or passport)
• Documents linking you to the account or asset (old bank statements, investment statements, or letters from the holder)
• Proof of your current address (utility bill or lease)

If you are claiming for a deceased relative, you may also need:

• The death certificate
• Proof that you are the heir or authorized representative (court order or will)

Delaware's website will tell you exactly what documents to send for your specific claim.

Claiming for a deceased relative

You can claim unclaimed money on behalf of a family member who has died. You will need to prove:

• Your relationship to the deceased
• That you are authorized to act on their behalf
• The person's death (death certificate)

Start by searching the unclaimed property database under the deceased person's name. Then follow the claim process on Delaware's website.

Avoid scams

Never pay upfront fees to claim your money. Claiming is free. Be cautious of:

• Companies claiming they can find unclaimed money faster for a fee
• Callers or emails asking you to confirm personal information
• Pressure to act quickly

Always go directly to the official Delaware Unclaimed Property website to search and file claims.

What happens next

After you file a claim, Delaware reviews your documents. This takes time—usually several weeks or months. You will be notified of the decision by mail. If approved, your money will be sent to you.

If you have questions about your claim, contact Delaware's unclaimed property program through their official website.

Related help

Looking for other money owed to you? Check our programs page for tax refunds, IRS refunds, and other government benefits. Use our screener tool to find help you may qualify for.