Unclaimed money in Minnesota

Unclaimed money in Minnesota is cash or property that belongs to you but the company or government agency holding it hasn't been able to find you. This might include old paychecks, utility deposits, insurance refunds, or money in abandoned bank accounts.

Search for your unclaimed money

The State of Minnesota holds unclaimed property. You can search for money in your name using Minnesota's official unclaimed property search.

When you search:

• Try variations of your name (first name only, nickname, maiden name if you've changed it)
• Search under old addresses where you used to live
• Search under a business name if you owned a company
• Search under a deceased relative's name if you think they may have had unclaimed money

Searching is free. You don't need to pay anyone to search for you or to claim the money.

How to file a claim

If you find money that belongs to you, the search results will show you how to file a claim. Most claims can be submitted online or by mail.

You will usually need to provide:

• Your name and current address
• Proof of your identity (a copy of your driver's license or other government ID)
• Proof that the money is yours (this depends on what type of property it is)

For example, if it's a utility deposit, you might need a copy of your final bill. If it's a paycheck, you might need to show a letter from your employer or a pay stub.

Minnesota processes claims as they receive them. It can take several months to get your money.

Claiming money for a deceased relative

If a family member has died and left unclaimed property, you may be able to claim it. You will usually need to provide:

• A certified copy of the death certificate
• Proof that you are an heir or have the legal right to claim the property (such as a will or court order)
• Your own identification

Contact Minnesota's unclaimed property office to ask what specific documents they need for your situation.

Protect yourself from scams

Be aware that scammers may contact you claiming they can help you get unclaimed money—for a fee. Real unclaimed money searches and claims are always free. Never:

• Pay money upfront to claim your property
• Give your Social Security number or financial information to someone who called you
• Wire money or use gift cards to pay a "search fee"

Scammers use official-sounding names and may claim they work for the state. If you're unsure, hang up and call the Minnesota unclaimed property office yourself using the number on the state website.

What counts as unclaimed property

Minnesota's unclaimed property program covers:

• Wages and paychecks
• Utility and security deposits
• Insurance refunds and uncashed insurance checks
• Money in dormant bank accounts
• Uncashed checks
• Stock dividends and other investment income
• Tax refunds
• Inheritance

If money has not been claimed or touched for a certain period of time (usually three to five years, depending on the type of property), it goes to the state as unclaimed property.

Get help

Searching for unclaimed money is free, and only Minnesota decides whether you qualify. If you have questions about the process, contact the Minnesota Department of Commerce using the information on the official search website.

You can also learn more about unclaimed money and find other government benefits you may qualify for.