Unclaimed money in Pennsylvania

What is unclaimed property?

Unclaimed property is money or items that a company, bank, or government agency has lost track of. It might be a forgotten bank account, an uncashed check, a security deposit, or insurance money. In Pennsylvania, this property goes to the Pennsylvania Treasury if no one claims it.

You may be owed unclaimed money if you:

• Had a bank account you haven't used in years
• Were supposed to get a refund or payment that never arrived
• Left a security deposit with a landlord or utility company
• Are listed as a beneficiary on a life insurance policy
• Are owed wages from a former employer

How to search for unclaimed money

The Pennsylvania Treasury holds unclaimed property. You can search for free on their official website at https://www.patreasury.gov/.

When you search:

• Start with your first and last name
• Try variations of your name (nicknames, maiden names, middle initials)
• Search for old addresses you've lived at
• Try searching under a deceased relative's name if you think they may have left unclaimed property

If you find a match, the search result will show you what type of property it is and how much it may be worth.

How to file a claim

If you find unclaimed property in your name:

1. 1
   Step 1: Write down all the details from the search result, including the holder's name and the amount
2. 2
   Step 2: Contact the Pennsylvania Treasury through their website or follow the claim instructions shown in your search result
3. 3
   Step 3: Fill out a claim form
4. 4
   Step 4: Send in proof that you own the property (see below)
5. 5
   Step 5: Wait for the Treasury to review your claim

The Treasury will contact you if they need more information. Claiming is free—never pay anyone to help you claim unclaimed money.

What proof you may need

The Pennsylvania Treasury usually asks for documents that prove:

• Your identity (copy of your driver's license or passport)
• Your connection to the unclaimed property (old bank statements, account statements, or correspondence from the company holding the money)
• Your current address

Keep copies of everything you send. Send documents by mail or upload them through the Treasury's website if that option is available.

Claiming for a deceased relative

If a relative has passed away and you believe they left unclaimed property:

• Search for their name on the Pennsylvania Treasury website
• If you find a match, follow the claim process
• You may need to provide a death certificate and proof that you are a legal heir or have the right to claim their property
• Contact the Treasury directly through their website for guidance on what documents to send

Avoid scams

Never pay upfront fees to claim unclaimed money. Legitimate unclaimed property searches and claims are free.

Be cautious of:

• Websites that charge a fee to search for unclaimed money
• Callers or emailers claiming you have unclaimed money and asking for payment
• Anyone asking for your full Social Security number or banking information before you initiate contact

Always search directly on the official Pennsylvania Treasury website. Learn more about unclaimed money and scams.

What happens next

After you file your claim, the Treasury reviews it. This can take several weeks or longer depending on how many claims they are processing. If your claim is approved, they will send the money to you by check or direct deposit.

If your claim is denied, the Treasury will explain why. You may be able to appeal the decision.

Searching for unclaimed property is free, and only the Pennsylvania Treasury decides whether you qualify to receive it."}