Unclaimed money in Oregon

Unclaimed money in Oregon includes bank accounts, paychecks, insurance payouts, and other assets that owners haven't claimed. The state holds onto this property and lets people search for it for free.

Search for your unclaimed money

Start with Oregon's official unclaimed property search site. You don't need to create an account or pay anything.

When you search:

• Try your full name first, then variations (maiden names, nicknames, initials)
• Search under old addresses where you used to live
• Search for deceased relatives using their full legal name
• If you find a match, the site shows the type of property, the holder (like a bank), and the amount

What counts as unclaimed property

Common types include:

• Uncashed paychecks or final wages
• Bank accounts with no activity
• Security deposits from rentals
• Insurance payouts or refunds
• Stock dividends
• Tax refunds
• Utility deposits

File a claim

If you find your money on the search site, follow the instructions to file a claim. This usually means:

1. 1
   Step 1: Completing an online claim form or mailing a paper form
2. 2
   Step 2: Providing proof that you own the property (like a driver's license, birth certificate, or old bank statements)
3. 3
   Step 3: Waiting for the state to review your claim

The state typically investigates claims for a few weeks or months. Processing time depends on how much proof you need to provide and how busy the office is.

Claiming money for a deceased relative

You can claim unclaimed property for someone who has died. You'll need:

• Their death certificate
• Proof that you're the heir or executor (like a will or court order)
• Your own ID

Proof you usually need

The state may ask for:

• A government-issued ID (driver's license or passport)
• Birth certificate
• Old bank statements or paycheck stubs
• Utility bills showing your address
• Court documents (for claims on behalf of minors or estates)

Keep originals and only send copies unless the state asks otherwise.

Avoid scams

Scammers sometimes claim they can find unclaimed money for you—for a fee. Remember:

• Searching for unclaimed money is always free
• You never need to pay upfront to claim what's yours
• Don't give personal information (Social Security number, bank account) to anyone except Oregon's official search site
• Be skeptical of calls, emails, or letters promising unclaimed money

What happens next

Once you file a claim, the state reviews it and either approves or denies it. If approved, they send the money to you by check or direct deposit, depending on the amount.

If your claim is denied, you can appeal or contact the office for more information about why.

More help

You can also explore other programs you may qualify for on OwedFinder.