Unclaimed money in Georgia

What counts as unclaimed money in Georgia

Unclaimed property is money or valuables that a business or government agency holds for you but can't find you. Common examples include:

• Old bank accounts or savings bonds you forgot about
• Paychecks that were never cashed
• Security deposits from rentals
• Insurance payouts
• Utility company refunds
• Stocks or dividends
• Tax refunds

If no one claims the property for a set time (usually 3 to 5 years), the business must turn it over to the state. Georgia holds this unclaimed property and makes it available for you to claim.

How to search for your unclaimed money

The state of Georgia maintains an official unclaimed property search at https://dor.georgia.gov/unclaimed-property-program. This is the free, official way to look for money owed to you.

Tips for a successful search:

• Search by your full name, first and last
• Try variations of your name (nickname vs. full name, maiden name if applicable)
• Search using old addresses where you lived
• Search under your name as it appeared on accounts (for example, if a bank account listed "John Michael Smith" but you go by "Mike Smith," try both)
• If you are searching for a business, use different versions of the company name

If you find a match, note the name of the holder (the bank, employer, or other organization) and the amount listed. This information will help when you file your claim.

Filing a claim for unclaimed money

Once you find your property in the Georgia search, contact the Georgia Department of Revenue to claim it. The official search page will give you instructions specific to your situation.

You will likely need to provide:

• Proof of identity (driver's license or state ID)
• Proof of your relationship to the property (for example, an old bank statement)
• A completed claim form

Applying is free. Only the Georgia Department of Revenue decides whether you qualify and can receive the money.

Claiming unclaimed money for a deceased relative

You can claim unclaimed property on behalf of someone who has died. You will typically need to provide:

• A death certificate
• Proof that you are a legal heir or have authority to claim (such as letters of administration from the court)
• Your identification

Contact the Georgia Department of Revenue for specific guidance on claiming for an estate or deceased person.

What happens after you file

After you submit your claim, the state will review it. This can take several weeks or longer. The agency will contact you if they need more information. If your claim is approved, they will send you the unclaimed property, usually by check.

Protecting yourself from scams

Be careful of websites or services that claim to find unclaimed money for you in exchange for a fee or a cut of the money. Many of these are scams.

Safe practices:

• Search for free on the official Georgia state website
• Never pay someone to search for you
• Never give credit card information or passwords to third parties
• Be skeptical of unsolicited calls, emails, or letters about unclaimed money
• Do not wire money or pay upfront fees to claim your property

If you have questions about unclaimed property in Georgia, contact the Georgia Department of Revenue directly through the official search site.

Related resources

For more help understanding benefits and money you may be owed, visit our programs page or use our screener tool to see what you might qualify for.