Unclaimed money in West Virginia

How to find unclaimed money in West Virginia

You may be owed unclaimed property in West Virginia. This includes forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, old insurance payouts, utility deposits, and stock dividends. Start searching right now at no cost.

Search the official database

The West Virginia State Treasurer's office holds unclaimed property. Use their official search tool at https://www.wvtreasury.com/ to look for money in your name.

Searching is free. You do not need to pay anyone to search for you.

Tips for searching

Try different name variations. Search for:

• Your full legal name
• A maiden name if you had one
• Nicknames you used on accounts
• Your name with initials instead of your first name

Search with old addresses. If you moved, try searching with:

• Your current address
• Any previous addresses where you lived
• Work addresses if you had direct deposit

Search multiple times. The West Virginia Treasurer's office adds new unclaimed property regularly. Search again in a few months if you don't find anything now.

What counts as unclaimed property

Unclaimed property is money or valuables that a company or bank hasn't been able to reach you about. Common types include:

• Dormant checking or savings accounts
• Uncashed checks or money orders
• Insurance refunds or policy payouts
• Utility company deposits
• Stock dividends or mutual fund proceeds
• Wages owed to you
• Tax refunds
• Inheritance money

How to file a claim

If you find your name in the database:

1. 1
   Step 1: Note the claim number and the holder's name (the company that has your money).
2. 2
   Step 2: Follow the instructions on the West Virginia website to file your claim.
3. 3
   Step 3: The state will guide you through what documents they need.

Filing is free. The state does not charge a fee to return your money to you.

What proof you may need

The West Virginia Treasurer's office usually asks for:

• A copy of your government-issued ID
• Proof of your current address (like a utility bill or lease)
• Documentation showing you owned the account or should receive the money

The exact documents depend on the type of unclaimed property. The state will tell you what to send.

Claiming money for a deceased relative

If a family member passed away and you believe they had unclaimed property:

1. 1
   Step 1: Search the database using their full legal name.
2. 2
   Step 2: If you find a claim, contact the West Virginia Treasurer's office for instructions.
3. 3
   Step 3: You will likely need to provide a death certificate and proof that you are an heir or have the legal right to claim the money.

How long does it take?

Warning: Avoid scams

Be cautious of services that charge fees to search for unclaimed money or claim it for you. You can search and file for free directly with the state.

Never give personal information like your Social Security number to anyone who contacts you claiming to know about unclaimed money. Scammers use unclaimed property to trick people.

Other resources

For questions about unclaimed property in West Virginia, contact the State Treasurer's office through their website.

You can also learn more about unclaimed money nationwide and find help with other government benefits and tax credits.