Unclaimed money in Missouri

What counts as unclaimed property in Missouri

Unclaimed property is money or assets that businesses or government agencies owe you but can't find you. Common types include:

• Money in old bank or savings accounts
• Uncashed checks
• Insurance payouts
• Utility deposits
• Paychecks
• Tax refunds
• Stock dividends

Missouri's Unclaimed Property program holds this money until you claim it. It's free to search and claim.

How to search for unclaimed money

Start at the official Missouri unclaimed property search site. You can search by name.

Search tips

Try different name variations if your first search finds nothing:

• Your maiden name
• Nicknames or initials
• Married names
• Hyphenated versions

You may also find results if you search using:

• Former addresses where you lived
• Old employer names
• A business you owned

If you don't find anything under your own name, you can search for a deceased relative.

How to file a claim

When you find unclaimed property that's yours, the search site will show you next steps. Usually you'll need to:

1. 1
   Step 1: Fill out a claim form
2. 2
   Step 2: Provide proof that the property is yours
3. 3
   Step 3: Submit documents by mail or online

The exact process depends on the type and amount of the unclaimed property.

What proof you'll usually need

Missouri may ask for documents that show you're the rightful owner. This could include:

• A government ID (driver's license or passport)
• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Old bank statements or statements from the holder
• Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement)
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if your name changed)

Keep copies for your records.

Claiming for a deceased relative

If the unclaimed property belonged to someone who has died, you may be able to claim it. You'll typically need to:

• Provide a death certificate
• Prove you're an heir or executor of the estate
• Submit documentation showing your relationship to the deceased person

Contact Missouri's Unclaimed Property office to ask what documents they need.

How long it takes

Warnings about scams

Be careful of scams claiming to help you find unclaimed money:

• Never pay an upfront fee to search for or claim unclaimed money. The official search is completely free.
• Don't give your Social Security number, bank account number, or passwords to anyone who contacts you about unclaimed money.
• Ignore emails or calls about unclaimed money you didn't search for. Scammers use these to steal personal information.
• The official search site is at treasurer.mo.gov. Check the web address before entering any information.

Only the official Missouri Unclaimed Property program decides if you get your money back.

Next steps

Start by searching at the official site. If you find something but need help with your claim, you can contact Missouri's Unclaimed Property office through their website.

If you have unclaimed taxes or refunds, you can also check on your IRS refund or explore other benefits you may qualify for.