Unclaimed money in Massachusetts

Unclaimed money in Massachusetts may be waiting for you. This could be from old paychecks, security deposits, insurance payouts, utility refunds, or accounts that have been inactive for a while.

How to search for unclaimed money

Use the official Massachusetts unclaimed property search at findmassmoney.com. This is the state's free, authorized tool.

When you search, try these variations of your name:

• Your full legal name
• Nicknames or shortened versions (like Bob instead of Robert)
• Maiden names if you've changed your name
• Middle name first or last
• Common misspellings

Also search using:

• Your current address
• Old addresses where you've lived
• Addresses of family members, if you're searching for a relative

If you don't find anything on your first try, search again in a few months. Massachusetts receives new unclaimed property claims regularly.

What counts as unclaimed property

Unclaimed money in Massachusetts typically includes:

• Uncashed paychecks or wages
• Utility deposits and refunds
• Insurance claim payments
• Tax refunds
• Stock dividends
• Rental deposits
• Escrow accounts
• Safety deposit box contents

How to file a claim

If you find money in your name:

1. 1
   Step 1: Click on the property listing in the search results.
2. 2
   Step 2: Follow the instructions to submit a claim form.
3. 3
   Step 3: Provide proof of ownership (see below).
4. 4
   Step 4: Submit your claim.

There is no cost to file a claim. Only the state of Massachusetts decides whether you qualify to receive the money.

What proof you usually need

Massachusetts typically asks for documents that show your identity and connection to the unclaimed property. Common examples include:

• A government-issued ID (driver's license or passport)
• Birth certificate (if claiming for a deceased person)
• Utility bill or lease showing your address
• Bank statements
• Old pay stubs or employment records
• Insurance documents

Keep copies of everything you submit. The state may ask for additional documents.

Claiming money for a deceased relative

You can claim unclaimed property left by a family member who has died. You'll usually need to provide:

• A death certificate
• Proof that you are an heir or have the legal right to claim (such as a will or court documents)
• Your ID and proof of your relationship to the deceased

The exact requirements depend on the situation. Contact the state if you're unsure what documents to submit.

What happens next

After you submit your claim:

• The state reviews your information and proof.
• This can take several weeks to several months.
• You'll receive a decision by mail.
• If approved, the state will send you a check or deposit the money into an account you provide.

Watch out for scams

Be cautious of:

• Websites that charge a fee to help you search or claim unclaimed money. The official search is always free.
• People or companies claiming they'll find unclaimed money for you in exchange for a percentage of what they recover.
• Emails or calls asking for personal information or payment to release your unclaimed money.
• Fake Massachusetts government websites.

Always search directly on the official state website. If you have questions, contact the state directly through the search site.

Get more help

For questions about unclaimed money in Massachusetts, use the contact information provided on findmassmoney.com. If you need help understanding benefits in general or finding other programs you may qualify for, visit our programs page or try our benefits screener.