State government officials hold billions of dollars in unclaimed property and funds every year. Fortunately, the process to search for assets owed to you can be completed in just three steps. Every state must maintain these records. However, state websites are not always up to date.
So, what can you do to find missing money in YOUR name? The steps below outline the general process to complete an online missing money search.
- Run an unclaimed property report through your state government’s website.
- Complete an unclaimed money search on nationwide databases.
- Look through government archives.
While unclaimed assets are usually listed on your state’s unclaimed property department website, that’s not always the case. Nevertheless, state level searches are a good place to start.
When completing state level searches, it is important to check the state websites for every state that you have lived or worked in. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check state websites in states where you suspect you may have had inheritance money slip through the cracks, such as if a deceased relative lived in another state.
Another way you may be able to find unclaimed money owed to you is by completing a search on a multi-state or nationwide database. These websites are especially helpful if you have worked and lived in multiple states in your lifetime.
While each unclaimed money search website may differ, you’ll likely need to provide information such as:
- Your full legal name
- The states, cities, or addresses that you have lived at
- Your Social Security number
It’s also a good idea to check for unclaimed assets through more specific government sources. For example, you can check your state’s Department of Labor website to learn more about unclaimed money you may have from missing paychecks, unemployment benefits, or backpay.
Want to check to see if you have an unclaimed mortgage insurance refund? Try searching the HUD database. Likewise, money from a bankruptcy case is likely handled by the U.S. Court system.
Alternatively, you can also utilize an unclaimed property broker. These brokers might be able to help you discover, locate, and complete the paperwork necessary to claim the assets and properties you’re entitled to.
Even if you have completed an unclaimed money search before, it can help to complete another one periodically. In doing so, it may be less likely that these funds slip through the cracks, and you’re more likely to receive the money you’re entitled to. After all, you could be missing money and not even know it!
