The checklist
Work through these in order. Each is free to search using official sources.
| Where to look | What you might find | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| State unclaimed property | Dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, utility deposits | How to find it |
| IRS refunds | A refund you never claimed or a check that was never cashed | The three-year rule |
| Savings bonds | Matured bonds that stopped earning interest | Bonds and pensions |
| Lost pensions and retirement accounts | Benefits from a former employer | Bonds and pensions |
| Tax credits | Credits you qualified for but did not claim | Credits you may be missing |
| Federal benefit programs | Programs you may qualify for based on your situation | Benefits.gov Benefit Finder |
| Refund programs from legal cases | Payments to consumers harmed by a company | FTC and CFPB refund pages |
Why money goes unclaimed
It usually happens in ordinary ways: moving without updating an address, changing jobs, forgetting a small account, or the death of a relative whose accounts were never settled. Institutions are required to turn dormant property over to the state after a period of inactivity, which is why states hold so much.
Money owed versus money you may qualify for
The first five rows of the checklist are money that is already yours or that you earned. The last two are programs where eligibility depends on your income, location or circumstances. Treat them differently: for unclaimed property you only need to prove it is yours; for programs, you need to meet the rules.
Before you start
- Write down every name you have used, including maiden names and nicknames.
- List every address you have lived at, with approximate dates.
- Gather identification and, for older accounts, any statements you can find.
- Use only official government or government-endorsed sites. Never pay to search or to claim.
What to do with what you find
Decide the purpose before the money arrives. See how much emergency fund you need, and use the Savings Calculator to see what a lump sum can grow into.
Common questions
How do I know if I have unclaimed money?
Search each state where you have lived using official state sites or MissingMoney.com, and check the IRS and TreasuryDirect tools described in these guides.
Does it cost anything to claim?
No. Official searches and claims are free. Be wary of anyone charging a fee to recover your money.
How long do claims take?
It varies from a few weeks to several months depending on the agency and the documentation needed.
Can I claim money for a deceased relative?
Often yes, with proof of relationship and legal documentation. Check the rules of the state or agency holding the funds.