Unclaimed money in Illinois

Unclaimed money in Illinois could be yours. It might be from an old bank account, a security deposit, or a utility refund. The state holds it until you claim it.

Search for your unclaimed money

Use the official Illinois Unclaimed Property search at https://icash.illinoistreasurer.gov/. It's free and takes just a few minutes.

Tips for searching

Try different versions of your name. Search for:

• Your full name
• Your first initial and last name
• Nicknames or middle names you may have used
• Your maiden name if you've changed it

If you've lived in Illinois multiple times, search using old addresses. Unclaimed property is often listed under the address where you lived when the money was owed to you.

Search for deceased relatives too. If someone in your family passed away, you may be able to claim money they left behind. You'll need to prove you're entitled to inherit it.

What counts as unclaimed property

Unclaimed money in Illinois includes:

• Money in dormant bank accounts
• Uncashed checks
• Security deposits from rentals or utilities
• Refunds owed by retailers
• Wages or commissions not picked up
• Life insurance payouts never claimed
• Stocks and dividends

File your claim

When you find your name in the search results, follow the instructions on the Illinois Unclaimed Property website to file a claim. You'll provide your personal information and details about the property.

Proof you'll likely need

The state usually asks for:

• A photo ID
• Proof of your current address, like a utility bill or lease
• For deceased relatives, a death certificate and proof you're entitled to inherit
• For business owners, documentation showing you owned the company
• Bank statements or other records connecting you to the account or property

Keep copies of everything you submit.

What happens after you claim

The Illinois Treasurer's Office will review your claim. If you provided the right documents, they'll send you a check or arrange a direct deposit. This can take several weeks.

If they need more information, they'll contact you. Check your mail and emails regularly while your claim is being processed.

Claiming for a deceased person

You can claim unclaimed money left by a relative who died. You'll need:

• An original or certified copy of their death certificate
• Proof that you're eligible to inherit (like a will, or a document showing you're their closest relative)
• Your ID and proof of address

The process may take longer for deceased relatives. Be patient.

Protect yourself from scams

Never pay upfront to claim unclaimed money. Legitimate unclaimed property services are free.

Watch out for:

• Companies that charge a fee to search or claim
• Emails or calls offering to help you claim money you didn't ask about
• Requests for your bank account or Social Security number before you've submitted a formal claim
• Promises that you'll definitely get money

Always go directly to https://icash.illinoistreasurer.gov/ to search and claim. It costs nothing and is the official source.

Applying is free, and only the Illinois Treasurer's Office decides if you qualify to receive the money. If you have questions about your claim, contact them directly through the official website.