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What Is Unclaimed Property, Unclaimed Money or Missing Money?
If the government owes you money and you do not collect it, then it's unclaimed. This can also happen with banks, credit unions, pensions, and other sources. If the property has no documented contact, activity or transaction involving the original owners for a year or longer it becomes unclaimed and is turned over to the state.
Have you ever left a job abruptly and never received your last check? Moved out of town before collecting deposits for utility/cable companies or housing? You, your relatives and friends could have missing money at this very moment resting within your state's treasury. And there's a treasure hunt going on right now of people attempting to find their share. But where is the treasure map that can lead you to find it? Let's examine the methods that lead to ultimate success.
Where To Find Unclaimed Money
The good news is that there are billions of dollars in unclaimed property, some of which might be yours.
The bad news is that the state and federal governments aren't going to tell you about it. So how can you claim what's rightfully yours?
Here are your best options:
- State Websites - Many states manage and maintain their own unclaimed property databases, while other states work hand-in-hand with NAUPA (National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators). There you can search for your name and the names of your relatives and friends and find lost funds.
- National Websites - If you are searching to find unclaimed property that falls under specific branches or departments of government or private institutions, some maintain their own national databases. Examples of this would be unclaimed tax refunds from the IRS, Bank or Credit Union failures, FHA - Insurance Refunds, matured savings bonds, and foreign claims