Unclaimed money in Michigan

What counts as unclaimed property in Michigan

Unclaimed property is money or assets that a company, government agency, or financial institution owes you but cannot find you. In Michigan, this includes:

• Uncashed checks
• Forgotten bank or savings accounts
• Unpaid wages or final paychecks
• Refunds you never received
• Insurance proceeds
• Utility deposits
• Stock dividends and bonds

Businesses must turn over unclaimed property to the state after a set period of inactivity. You can search for and claim this money for free through Michigan's official unclaimed property program.

How to search for unclaimed money

Use the official Michigan Unclaimed Property search site to look for your money.

When you search, try these approaches:

• Search by your first and last name
• Try variations of your name (nicknames, maiden names, or how you spelled it differently in the past)
• If you lived in Michigan before, search under old addresses
• Search for family members, in case money was left in their names
• Search any business you owned

If you find a match, write down the holder's name (the company or agency that owes the money), the property type, and the amount listed.

How to file a claim

Once you find unclaimed property in your name, follow the instructions on the search site to file your claim. The process usually involves:

1. 1
   Step 1: Submitting a claim form with your personal information
2. 2
   Step 2: Providing proof of ownership
3. 3
   Step 3: Mailing or submitting documents as directed

Applying is free. Only Michigan's unclaimed property program decides whether you qualify and can receive the money.

What proof you usually need

Michigan typically asks for documents that show you are who you say you are and that the property is yours. Common proof includes:

• A government-issued ID (driver's license or passport)
• Your Social Security Number
• Documents from the company or agency that held the money (like old account statements, canceled checks, or letters)
• Proof of your address at the time the property was unclaimed

If you cannot find original documents, explanatory letters or other records may work. The unclaimed property program will tell you what they accept.

Claiming money for a deceased relative

If a family member has passed away and left unclaimed property, you may be able to claim it. You will likely need:

• The person's original will or court documents showing you are an heir
• A certified copy of their death certificate
• Proof of your relationship
• Your own ID and information

Contact Michigan's unclaimed property program for specific steps when claiming for someone who has died.

How long it takes

Claim processing times vary. Simple claims may be resolved in weeks, while complex ones can take months. The unclaimed property program will update you on your claim's status.

Watch out for scams

Never pay upfront fees to search for or claim unclaimed money. The official search is free. Be wary of:

• Emails or calls claiming you have unclaimed money and asking for payment
• Websites that charge fees to search for you
• Requests to wire money or send gift cards
• Promises that you will definitely get money

Always search directly through the official Michigan site instead of using third-party services.

More help

For questions about unclaimed money in Michigan, contact the state's unclaimed property program directly through their official website. For general information about unclaimed property, see our unclaimed money guide.