Money a Loved One Left Behind: How to Find and Claim Unclaimed Funds for Free

Yes, there may be money waiting for your family

When someone you love passes away, sorting out their money is hard. But there is often money out there they left behind, and it may belong to you now.

This can include old bank accounts, uncashed paychecks, insurance payouts, tax refunds, and utility deposits. When a company loses track of the owner, it eventually turns the money over to the state. The state holds it until the rightful person claims it.

There is no fee to search, and no fee to claim through official state programs. The money is already yours if you can show you are the rightful heir.

Who can claim it

If you are the spouse, child, or another legal heir of someone who died, you may have the right to claim what they left behind.

Each state has its own unclaimed property program. You can search a person's name, even if they passed years ago, and see if anything is being held.

To claim money on behalf of someone who died, you usually need to prove two things: that the person is deceased, and that you are their legal heir. States often ask for a death certificate and documents showing your relationship, like a birth or marriage certificate.

What it costs (nothing) and who to avoid

Searching and claiming through your state is always free. You do not need to pay anyone to find this money for you.

Watch out for people who call, email, or write offering to recover 'lost' money for a fee or a cut of the total. The FTC warns that legitimate government agencies will never demand money, make threats, or promise you a prize. You can do the whole thing yourself at no cost.

Back-to-school season stretches many family budgets. Money that already belongs to your family can help, and there is nothing wrong with claiming what is yours.

Frequently asked questions

Does it cost anything to search for a late relative's money?

No. Searching and claiming through your state's official unclaimed property program is free. You never have to pay to find or claim money that belongs to you or your family.

What documents do I need to claim money for someone who died?

States usually ask for a death certificate and proof that you are the legal heir, such as a birth or marriage certificate. Requirements vary by state, so check your state's official site.

Someone offered to find my family's money for a fee. Should I use them?

Be careful. You can do the same search for free yourself. The FTC warns that legitimate government agencies never demand money or promise prizes. You do not need a paid middleman.

How long does the state hold unclaimed money?

Most states hold unclaimed property until the rightful owner or heir claims it, often with no deadline. It is worth searching even if the person passed years ago.