Five Minutes to Search Every State for Money With Your Name on It

There may be money waiting for you

Millions of Americans have money sitting in state accounts that they never claimed. It can come from an old bank account, a forgotten deposit, a final paycheck, a refund, or an insurance payout.

When a business cannot find you, that money often gets turned over to your state. The state holds it for you until you come looking. There is no deadline to lose it, and there is no fee to get it back.

August is a busy, expensive time for families. If you have kids heading back to school, a few extra dollars can help with supplies, clothes, or fees. Checking for unclaimed money is one of the simplest free things you can do this week.

Why this money exists

Unclaimed property laws exist in every state. They require companies to hand over money and property they cannot return to the rightful owner.

This is not a benefit you have to qualify for. It is your own money, held in trust by the state. You just have to prove who you are and ask for it back.

Because this money is real and free, scammers try to copy it. Real state programs never charge you a fee to search or to claim what is yours.

How to search all 50 states the free way

Most states run their own official unclaimed property website. There is also a national tool created by state officials that lets you search many states at once.

Start with your own state, then check any state where you used to live, went to school, or worked. Names change and people move, so search under maiden names and old addresses too.

The whole search takes about five minutes. If you find your name, follow the state's steps to file a claim. The official process is always free.

Frequently asked questions

Does it cost anything to search or claim?

No. Official state unclaimed property searches and claims are free. Any site that charges a fee to search is not the official one.

How long do I have to claim it?

In most states there is no deadline to claim your own unclaimed property. The state holds it until you come for it.

Should I pay a finder who says they found money for me?

You do not need to. You can search and file the same claim yourself for free. Be careful with anyone who pressures you to pay upfront.

What if I moved a lot?

Search every state where you lived, worked, or went to school, and try old names and spellings. Money can be held in more than one state.