Unclaimed money in Texas

Search for unclaimed money in Texas

Texas holds billions of dollars in unclaimed property. This could be yours if a company or government agency lost contact with you.

What counts as unclaimed property

Unclaimed property includes:

• Money in old bank accounts or savings accounts
• Paychecks you never cashed
• Utility deposits
• Insurance payouts
• Stock dividends
• Tax refunds
• Security deposits from rentals or other sources

If a company can't reach you for a set number of years (usually three to five years), they turn the money over to the state of Texas.

How to search

Go to Claim It Texas, the official Texas unclaimed property search site.

Search by your name or a business name. Try variations of your name:

• Your full first name and your last name
• Your first initial and your last name
• Nicknames or middle names
• Maiden names (if applicable)

You can also search by an old address where you lived. If you've moved several times, search each address you remember.

What to do if you find unclaimed money

If a claim appears to be yours, click on it to see details. You'll learn what type of property it is and where it came from.

To claim the money, you'll need to file a claim with the state. The website will guide you through the steps.

Proof you may need to provide

Texas usually asks for proof that the unclaimed property belongs to you. Have these documents ready:

• A government-issued ID (like a driver's license or passport)
• Documents showing your address (like an old utility bill or lease)
• Bank statements or other records linked to the account or company
• A death certificate (if you're claiming for someone who died)

Claiming unclaimed money for a deceased relative

If a relative died and left unclaimed property, you may be able to claim it. You'll likely need:

• The person's death certificate
• Proof that you're the heir or have the legal right to claim (like a will or court order)
• Your ID and proof of your relationship to the deceased person

Contact Texas directly to learn what paperwork they need for a specific claim.

How long it takes

Once you file a claim, Texas will review it. The time it takes depends on how much paperwork is needed and how busy the office is.

Protect yourself from scams

Be careful of companies claiming they can find unclaimed money for you—for a fee. Scammers use high-pressure tactics and promise guaranteed results.

Remember:

• The official search is free
• Filing a claim with Texas is free
• You never have to pay upfront to claim your own money
• Only Texas decides if you qualify

If someone promises to find your unclaimed money for a percentage of what you get, or asks for money before helping you search, that's a red flag.

Next steps

Start by searching the official Claim It Texas website. If you have questions about a specific claim, contact Texas directly through the website. They can explain what proof you'll need and walk you through the filing process.

If you think unclaimed money exists in another state where you've lived, check that state's unclaimed property program too. Many states have similar search tools and claim processes.