Guide Guru

A Guide Finding and Claiming Missing Money

What Are Unclaimed Assets and Funds?

If you’re careful with your money, track your finances, and keep tabs on your accounts, the idea of missing money might seem surprising. Yet, it’s more common than you think to have funds out there waiting for you—whether forgotten savings, uncashed refunds, or leftover balances on gift cards.

Unclaimed assets are essentially money or property that legally belongs to you but hasn’t made its way back—often because you can’t be located, or there was a mistake along the way. This can include anything from dormant bank accounts to misplaced insurance payouts or even unreturned security deposits.

According to the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators, by 2023, states were holding roughly $70 billion in unclaimed funds. In fact, about 1 in 7 people have some form of unclaimed money sitting with government agencies.

Wondering if you might have unclaimed assets? Keep reading to learn how to check and claim any money that’s rightfully yours.

Common Types of Unclaimed Assets

Unclaimed property comes in two main categories:

  • Tangible assets: Physical valuables like cash or jewelry stored in safe deposit boxes.
  • Intangible assets: Financial assets such as stocks, bonds, uncashed checks, or investments.

These unclaimed funds can come from many places, including:

  • Forgotten bank accounts: Dormant checking or savings accounts you may have forgotten or never closed. Sometimes, bank closures or system errors mean your money gets temporarily “lost” in the shuffle.
  • Unpaid wages: Checks sent to old addresses or accounting errors in direct deposit may leave you owed money.
  • Missed refunds: This includes refunds for purchases, tax returns not filed or miscalculated, mortgage insurance refunds, or tax credits.
  • Security deposits: Money landlords or utility companies owe you that never made it back.
  • Uncashed checks or money orders: Even small amounts add up when left unclaimed.
  • Insurance payouts: Policy changes or life insurance benefits that haven’t been paid out properly.
  • Investments: Dividends, yields, or funds from stocks, bonds, or certificates of deposit left unclaimed.
  • Gift cards: Small balances left unused or lost.
  • Lawsuit settlements: Especially from class-action suits where payments don’t always reach all recipients.
  • Pensions: Benefits from plans that may go unclaimed if the provider closes or changes.
  • Safe deposit boxes: Valuables or documents left behind when banks change ownership or close.
  • Real estate: Property ownership that becomes unclear or forgotten.

What Happens to Unclaimed Assets?

Assets become unclaimed for many reasons—account inactivity, bank closures, mailing mistakes, or simply because the owner can’t be contacted.

Legally, businesses and banks can’t keep these funds for themselves. After a dormancy period (typically two to three years), these assets must be handed over to the state agency responsible for holding unclaimed property.

This transfer is called escheatment—but don’t worry, it doesn’t mean you lose your money. Instead, the state safeguards your funds until you come forward to claim them. Each state is required by law to hold these assets indefinitely, with no expiration date.

To get your money back, you’ll need to file a claim with the right state agency. But first, you need to find out if any unclaimed assets exist in your name.

How to Find and Claim Unclaimed Assets

The process is pretty straightforward. Generally, you can take the following steps:

  1. Search for any property or money under your name.
  2. Prove you are the rightful owner.
  3. Identify the agency holding your assets.
  4. File a claim to recover your funds.

With the right steps, you can reclaim money or property that’s waiting for you—sometimes forgotten, but never truly lost.

Searching for Unclaimed Assets

Before unclaimed assets are handed over to the state, companies, banks, or organizations that hold your property are required to try to contact you. Sometimes, they hire third-party services to help track down owners. (For tips on spotting scams from these agencies, see the section titled “How to Avoid Unclaimed Property Scams.”)

If you haven’t been found and you suspect there may be unclaimed property in your name, it’s up to you to do the searching. Luckily, there are several reliable websites to help you get started:

  • National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA): Visit unclaimed.org to search for unclaimed assets by state and find the right government agency holding your property.
  • MissingMoney.com: This site offers a similar search tool that covers all U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and parts of Canada. Just select your state or region to be directed to the relevant official website for your area.
  • USA.gov: Their unclaimed money page is a great resource for checking a variety of potential unclaimed funds.

You can also check specialized government sources for specific types of funds:

Using these resources, you can uncover any unclaimed money or property under your name and take the next steps to recover it.

How to Claim Unclaimed Assets State-by-State

One of the most important steps in claiming your money is providing evidence that you are the rightful owner. In order for your funds to be returned, the state government or other agencies will require that you fill out a claim form. 

Each agency has its own claim process, meaning that you cannot submit a generic or universal application to have your funds returned. Likewise, each state has its own online resource to search for unclaimed assets, funds or property.

Learn how and where to find and claim unclaimed assets in your area by reviewing the appropriate section below. 

Alabama

State agency: The Office of the State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division

How to file a claim:

Claims can take roughly six to eight weeks to process.

Alaska

State agency: Alaska Department of Revenue, Treasury Division

How to file a claim: 

Claimants have 90 days to respond.

Arizona

State agency: Arizona Department of Revenue

How to file a claim:

  1. Download the claim forms via https://azdor.gov/unclaimed-property/owners-file-claim/filing-claim.
  2. Print the forms and complete them with your information, including your Social Security Number, plus proof of address (like a utility statement, insurance policy, tax return or auto registration).
  3. Send your documents to:
    Arizona Department of Revenue
    Unclaimed Property Unit
    P.O. Box 29026
    Phoenix, AZ 85038-9026

It can take between 90 and 120 days.

Arkansas

State agency: Arkansas Auditor of State

How to file a claim: 

  • Search for unclaimed property on the state website here: https://www.claimitar.gov
  • Click to search for property, money, funds or other assets. 
  • Upload necessary documents, which vary depending on what you’re claiming.

Need help? Call 1-800-252-4648 for assistance.

California 

State agency: California State Controller

How to file a claim: 

  • To search for unclaimed property, head to https://sco.ca.gov/upd_msg.html.
  • Download and complete the claim form.
    • If your assets are worth more than $1,000, you’ll need to get the form notarized.
  • Provide an ID, your Social Security Number, and documents showing your current mailing address.
  • Mail everything to:
    State Controller’s Office
    Unclaimed Property Division
    P.O. Box 942850
    Sacramento, CA 94250-5873

Claims can take between 30 and 60 days to process, though law permits the state up to six months to resolve cases.

Colorado 

State agency: Colorado Unclaimed Property Website

How to file a claim: 

  • Visit https://colorado.findyourunclaimedproperty.com/.
  • Enter your information, like your name and email.
  • Provide an original signed claim form, a photo ID and your Social Security Number. 
  • You may need to notarize your claim form depending on the claim you are filing.
  • Upload your documents online, or mail them to:
    The Great Colorado Payback Office
    200 E. Colfax Ave. Room 141
    Denver CO 80203-1722

Connecticut

State agency: Connecticut Office of the Treasurer

How to file a claim: 

  • Use the state’s unclaimed property website here: https://ctbiglist.gov/
  • Choose the type of property you’d like to claim.
  • Create a claim form, print it out and review the documents that you need to submit.
  • Sign the form and mail it with the required documents to:
    State of Connecticut
    Office of the State Treasurer
    P.O. Box 5065
    Hartford, CT 06102
  • Track your claim progress online.

It can take up to 90 days for claims to be processed.

Delaware 

State agency: Delaware Office of Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Visit Delaware’s property database at https://unclaimedproperty.delaware.gov/.
  • Provide your current address.
  • Submit a claim by providing other required documentation, such as:
    • A completed, signed, and notarized claim form
    • High resolution, color image of a government-issued photo identification
    • Proof of current mailing address
    • Evidence connecting you to the property being claimed
  • After the claim has been processed, you’ll receive a claim number.

Florida 

State agency: Florida Department of Financial Services

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed property at https://fltreasurehunt.gov/.
  • Download and print out a claim form
  • Collect copies of required documents, like:
    • Current, valid photo ID (like a driver’s license)
    • Your mailing address
    • Social Security Number (for proof of account ownership)
  • Mail all the documents to:
    Florida Department of Financial Services
    Division of Unclaimed Property
    P.O. Box 8599
    Tallahassee, FL 32314-8599
  • You can track your claim online by visiting the main website and clicking on the button that reads “CHECK STATUS OF YOUR FILED CLAIM”

Claims may take up to 90 days to process.

Georgia

State agency: Georgia Department of Revenue

How to file a claim: 

  • Start a search on the Georgia Department of Revenue website here: https://dor.georgia.gov/unclaimed-property-program
  • If your name appears on the results page, click it to add it to your cart.
  • Register for an online account using your email, name and address, then choosing a user name and a password.
  • You should receive a claim form to the email address you provide on your claim, which has more details on how to submit it. In most cases, you’ll need to provide supporting documentation, like:
    • A copy of your Social Security card
    • Photo ID
    • Proof of current address (like a utility bill or bank statement)
  • You can track the status of your claim by logging into your online account here: https://gaclaims.unclaimedproperty.com/en/ClaimantAccount/ClaimantLogin 

Hawaii

State agency: Hawaii Department of Budget and Finance

How to file a claim: 

  • Begin the claim process at https://unclaimedproperty.ehawaii.gov/lilo/app by completing and signing a claim form.
  • If your assets are worth more than $50, you’ll need to get the claim form notarized.
  • Provide copies of a valid ID, such as a bank statement, cancelled check, birth or marriage certificate, mortgage document, etc.
  • Submit the claim by mail to:
    State of Hawaii
    Unclaimed Property Program
    P.O. Box 150
    Honolulu, HI 96810

Idaho

State agency: Idaho State Treasurer’s Office

How to file a claim: 

  • Use https://yourmoney.idaho.gov/ to search for unclaimed assets.
  • Submit the claim form on the website and receive a claim ID.
  • Upload required documents.
  • You can revisit the website at any time to check the status of your claim.

It might take up to 3 months to process.

Indiana

State agency: State of Indiana, Office of the Attorney General, Unclaimed Property Division

How to file a claim:

  • Verify your assets at indianaunclaimed.gov.
  • Click “claim” to upload required documentation.
  • Submit your claim online with proof of address and ID, or mail to:
    Office of the Indiana Attorney General
    Unclaimed Property Division
    P.O. Box 2504
    Greenwood, IN 46142
  • If filing online, you can check claim status on the website.
  • Expect up to three months for processing.

Iowa

State agency: Treasurer of the State of Iowa

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed funds at greatiowatreasurehunt.gov.
  • Submit your claim online and upload documents such as proof of address and Social Security card.
  • Alternatively, print and mail your documents to:
    Great Iowa Treasure Hunt
    Lucas State Office Building
    321 E 12th St., 1st Floor
    Des Moines, IA 50319
  • Track your claim status online.
  • Processing usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Kansas

State agency: State of Kansas Treasurer’s Office

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed property at kansasstatetreasurer.com.
  • You can claim up to 30 properties at once.
  • Follow the instructions to submit documentation and check your claim status online.

Kentucky

State agency: Kentucky State Treasurer and MissingMoney.com

How to file a claim:

  • Visit kyclaims.unclaimedproperty.com to search for your name.
  • If found, add the property to your cart.
  • You may register for a free account or continue as a guest.
  • After starting a claim, a form will be mailed or provided as a PDF.
  • Complete the form and mail with your documents to:
    Kentucky State Treasury
    Unclaimed Property Division
    1050 U.S. Highway 127 South, Suite 100
    Frankfort, KY 40601
  • Track your claim status online here.

Louisiana

State agency: Louisiana State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Search and claim your property at louisiana.findyourunclaimedproperty.com.
  • Upload required documents such as ID scans, Social Security card, bank statements, or W-9 forms as prompted.
  • Mail the completed claim form to:
    Louisiana Department of the Treasury
    P.O. Box 91010
    Baton Rouge, LA 70821-9010
  • Check claim status online.
  • Claims may take up to 90 days to process.

Maine

State agency: Maine State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Program

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed money using the state website: maineunclaimedproperty.gov.
  • Follow instructions to upload your claim form and supporting documents (proof of ID, address, Social Security Number) securely online, or download a mail-in form.
  • Mail documents to:
    Office of the State Treasurer
    Attn: Unclaimed Property
    39 State House Station
    Augusta, ME 04333-0039

Maryland

State agency: Comptroller of Maryland

How to file a claim:

  • Begin your search at marylandtaxes.gov/unclaimed-property.
  • Download and fill out the claim form: PDF claim form.
  • Attach scans of two forms of ID, including one with your Social Security Number.
  • Mail your completed claim to:
    Comptroller of Maryland – Unclaimed Property Unit
    301 West Preston Street, Room 310
    Baltimore, MD 21201-2385
  • Processing can take 6 to 8 weeks. Cash your claim check within six weeks to avoid losing it.

Massachusetts

State agency: Massachusetts State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Division

How to file a claim:

  • Search at findmassmoney.gov.
  • Select “Search for Unclaimed Property,” enter your name, and find your property.
  • Click “file claim,” add your contact info, and upload proof of ID and Social Security card. Additional documents may be required.
  • Submit online or print and mail to:
    Unclaimed Property Division
    One Ashburton Place, 12th Floor
    Boston, MA 02108
  • Track your claim status online.

Michigan

State agency: Michigan Department of Treasury — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Search at unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov.
  • Select your property, click “claim,” and provide your mailing address.
  • Submit supporting documents online as instructed or mail to:
    Unclaimed Property
    Michigan Department of Treasury
    P.O. Box 30756
    Lansing, MI 48909

Minnesota

State agency: Minnesota Commerce Department

How to file a claim:

  • Search for property at minnesota.findyourunclaimedproperty.com.
  • Select your property and click “Continue to file claim.”
  • Complete the claim form and submit online to generate a Claim ID.
  • Upload documentation at claim-doc-upload or mail to:
    Minnesota Commerce Department
    85 7th Place East, Suite 280
    St. Paul, MN 55101
  • Track your claim online.
  • Allow 90 days for processing. For questions, call 651-539-1545.

Mississippi

State agency: Mississippi State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Search at treasury.ms.gov.
  • Click “That’s Me!” next to your property.
  • Complete the claim online or print the notarized claim form from here.
  • Mail to:
    Office of the State Treasurer
    Unclaimed Property Division
    P.O. Box 138
    Jackson, MS 39205
  • Questions? Email Unclaimed@treasury.ms.gov or call (601) 359-3534.
  • Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Missouri

State agency: Missouri State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Search for your name at treasurer.mo.gov/unclaimedproperty.
  • Select “File a Claim” to submit online.
  • Or request a mailed claim form to fill out and send to:
    Office of the Missouri State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property
    P.O. Box 1004
    Jefferson City, MO 65102

Montana

State agency: Montana Department of Revenue

How to file a claim:

  • Search at tap.dor.mt.gov.
  • Upload a holder letter and claim form online.
  • Check claim status on the site.
  • Some claims may require mailing additional documents.

Nebraska

State agency: Nebraska State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Follow instructions to search for your property at nebraskalostcash.nebraska.gov.
  • Verify identity and mailing address.
  • Upload or mail documents such as ID and Social Security Number to:
    Unclaimed Property Division
    809 P Street
    Lincoln, NE 68508
  • Track your claim online.

Nevada

State agency: Nevada State Treasurer

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed funds online at https://www.nvup.gov/app/claim-search
  • Claims over $500 (or those involving outstanding shares or safety deposit box contents) require notarization. You can get this done at a bank or county treasury office.
  • Include a copy of your government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license) and your Social Security Number.
  • Provide proof of residence if the office cannot verify your address.
  • You can also mail claim documents to:
    Nevada’s Unclaimed Property Division
    555 E Washington Ave – Suite 5200
    Las Vegas, NV 89101
  • Track your claim status online at claims.nevadaunclaimedproperty.gov.

New Hampshire

State agency: New Hampshire State Treasury’s Abandoned Property Division

How to file a claim:

  • Search and upload claim documents at newhampshire.findyourunclaimedproperty.com.
  • Include proof of Social Security Number and proof of your address (utility bill, mortgage statement, or personal check).
  • Notarize your claim form—this can often be done at a bank or county treasury office.
  • Mail claim forms to:
    Abandoned Property Division
    25 Capitol St. Room 205
    Concord, NH 03301-6312
  • Check claim status online at https://www.findnhmoney.gov/app/claim-status-search
  • For assistance, call (603) 271-2619 or toll-free (800) 791-0920.

New Jersey

State agency: NJ Treasury, Unclaimed Property Administration

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed property at unclaimedproperty.nj.gov.
  • Provide proof of:
    • Official ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID, state ID, or immigration papers)
    • Social Security Number (card, SSA correspondence, tax document, paycheck stub)
    • Address (tax document, utility bill, school record, bank statement, or medical document)
  • Upload your documents online or mail your claim to:
    State of New Jersey
    Unclaimed Property Administration
    P.O. Box 214
    Trenton, NJ 08625-0214
    ATTN: Claim Section
  • Track your claim online.

New Mexico

State agency: New Mexico Taxation & Revenue

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed property statewide at missingmoney.com.
  • Submit a notarized claim form including:
    • A clear copy of government-issued photo ID
    • Proof of Social Security Number
    • Proof of residency or mailing address
  • Follow the claim instructions carefully.
  • Processing may take up to 120 days.

New York

State agency: Office of the New York State Comptroller

How to file a claim:

  • Search for lost funds at ouf.osc.state.ny.us.
  • Select the property you want to claim and start your claim online or download the mail claim form.
  • Notarize your claim form (banks or county offices may assist).
  • Attach proof of ID, address, and ownership.
  • Mail your claim to:
    Office of the State Comptroller
    Office of Unclaimed Funds
    110 State Street
    Albany, NY 12236
  • You’ll receive a confirmation letter within 30 days. Payment typically arrives within 4–6 weeks after processing.

North Carolina

State agency: North Carolina Department of State Treasurer

How to file a claim:

  • Search for property at unclaimed.nccash.com.
  • If property is found, begin your claim online by uploading supporting documents like proof of Social Security Number and current mailing address.
  • Mail your claim and documents to:
    Unclaimed Property Division
    PO Box 20431
    Raleigh, NC 27619-0431
  • Track your claim online.
  • For help, call 866-622-2741.

North Dakota

State agency: North Dakota Department of Trust Lands — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Start at https://unclaimedproperty.nd.gov/app/claim-search
  • Select properties, enter your contact info, and submit your claim.
  • Upload scans of supporting documents (Social Security card, driver’s license or ID).
  • To file by mail, send documents to:
    Unclaimed Property Division
    1707 N 9th St
    Bismarck, ND 58501-1853
  • Questions? Call (701) 328-2800 or email unclaimed@nd.gov.
  • Track your claim status online.

Ohio

State agency: Ohio Department of Commerce

How to file a claim:

Oklahoma

State agency: Oklahoma State Treasurer

How to file a claim:

Oregon

State agency: Oregon Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed assets at unclaimed.oregon.gov.
  • Verify property and provide your address and contact details.
  • Upload required documents including photo ID and Social Security proof.
  • You can also mail claims to:
    Department of State Lands
    775 Summer St. NE, Suite 100
    Salem, OR 97302
  • Check your claim status online. Claims may take up to 120 days to process.

Pennsylvania

State agency: Pennsylvania State Treasury — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

Rhode Island

State agency: Rhode Island State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Begin your search and claim at findrimoney.com.
  • Fill out your claim form with your name, contact information, and address.
  • Upload documents such as photo ID and Social Security card.
  • Submit your claim online or print and mail it to:
    Rhode Island Unclaimed Property Division
    P.O. Box 1435
    Providence, RI 02901-1435
  • Track your claim status online.

South Carolina

State agency: State Treasurer of South Carolina — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed property at southcarolina.findyourunclaimedproperty.com.
  • Begin your claim by entering your name, address, and contact details.
  • Upload supporting documents such as a photo ID and Social Security card.
  • Submit online or print and mail your claim to:
    South Carolina State Treasurer
    Unclaimed Property Program
    1200 Senate Street, Suite 214
    Wade Hampton Building
    Columbia, SC 29201
  • Track your claim status online.
  • Claims usually take 4 to 12 weeks to process.

South Dakota

State agency: South Dakota Treasurer Unclaimed Property Division

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed property at southdakota.findyourunclaimedproperty.com.
  • Confirm your contact info and upload scans of your photo ID and Social Security card.
  • Submit your claim via email to unclaimed@sdtreasurer.gov or mail to:
    SD State Treasurer – UCP
    124 E Dakota Ave
    Pierre, SD 57501
  • Track your claim status online.
  • Claims are typically processed within 2 to 3 weeks.

Tennessee

State agency: Tennessee Department of Treasury — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

Texas

State agency: Texas Comptroller — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Start your search and claim at claimittexas.org.
  • Complete your claim form with your name, contact info, and address.
  • Upload required documents such as photo ID and Social Security card.
  • Submit your claim securely online or mail it to:
    Comptroller of Public Accounts
    Unclaimed Property Claims Section
    P.O. Box 12046
    Austin, TX 78711-2046
  • Monitor your claim status online.

Utah

State agency: Utah State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property Division

How to file a claim:

  • Visit mycash.utah.gov to search and claim unclaimed property.
  • Fill out your claim form with name, contact details, and address.
  • Upload required documents, including photo ID and Social Security proof.
  • Submit online or mail claim forms to:
    Unclaimed Property Division
    P.O. Box 140530
    168 N 1950 W Suite 102
    Salt Lake City, UT 84116
  • Track claim progress online.

Vermont

State agency: Vermont Office of the State Treasurer

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed property and file a holder report at vermonttreasurer.gov/unclaimed-property.
  • Claims under $200 may be submitted online if you are the original owner; otherwise, complete a claim form:
    Vermont Claim Form PDF
  • Request a mailed claim form by emailing unclaimed.property@vermont.gov.
  • Attach supporting documents such as proof of address, ID, and Social Security Number.
  • Mail everything to:
    Vermont Unclaimed Property Division
    State Treasurer’s Office
    109 State Street
    Montpelier, VT 05609-6200

Virginia

State agency: Virginia Treasury Unclaimed Property Program

How to file a claim:

  • Visit vamoneysearch.org and click “Click to claim property.”
  • Log in or search without an account, then follow prompts to submit your claim.
  • Mail claim forms and documents to:
    Virginia Department of the Treasury
    101 North 14th Street
    Richmond, VA 23219
  • Track claim status online.
  • Claims usually process within 6 to 8 weeks.

Washington

State agency: Washington State Department of Revenue — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Search for property at ucp.dor.wa.gov.
  • In “Search and Claim Property,” enter your info and click “Search.”
  • Gather required documents, including:
    • Photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
    • Proof of address (auto registration, utility bill, bank statement, court documents, school transcript, marriage certificate, or a postmarked envelope addressed to you)
  • Complete your claim online or print a claim voucher and mail it to:
    Department of Revenue – Unclaimed Property
    P.O. Box 47477
    Olympia, WA 98504-7477
  • Check your claim status online.

Washington, D.C.

State agency: Office of the Chief Financial Officer — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Visit dc.findyourunclaimedproperty.com to search for and claim unclaimed property.
  • Click “Get Started” or begin your claim by entering your name, contact info, and address in the “Claiming a property” section.
  • Upload required documents, including photo ID and Social Security card.
  • Submit your claim securely online, or mail your claim forms to:
    DC Office of Finance and Treasury
    Unclaimed Property Unit
    1101 4th St. SW, Ste. 800W
    Washington, DC 20024
  • Track your claim status anytime on the homepage using your claim number.

West Virginia

State agency: West Virginia State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Start your search and claim at wv.findyourunclaimedproperty.com.
  • Enter your name in the search box to begin your claim form.
  • Upload supporting documents such as photo ID and Social Security card.
  • Submit your claim online or mail it to:
    West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office
    Unclaimed Property Division
    P.O. Box 4228
    Charleston, WV 25364
  • Check your claim status anytime on the homepage.

Wisconsin

State agency: State of Wisconsin Department of Revenue

How to file a claim:

  • Visit tap.revenue.wi.gov/UCPDOR/_/ to search for unclaimed property and fill out a pre-claim form.
  • Follow claim instructions carefully and note your claim number.
  • Upload supporting documents, including photo ID and Social Security card, at tap.revenue.wi.gov/UCPAddInfo/_/.
  • You may also fax documents to (608) 261-6799 or mail to:
    Wisconsin Department of Revenue
    Unclaimed Property Unit
    P.O. Box 8982
    Madison, WI 53708-8982
  • Check claim status online. Processing can take up to eight weeks.

Wyoming

State agency: Wyoming State Treasurer — Unclaimed Property

How to file a claim:

  • Go to statetreasurer.wyo.gov/unclaimed-property
  • Fill out a claim form with your name, contact info, and address.
  • Upload required documents such as photo ID and Social Security card.
  • Review and sign your claim, then submit securely online.
  • You should receive confirmation within 24 hours.
  • Track your claim status anytime on the homepage.

U.S. Territories

American Samoa

Agency: American Samoa Government
How to file a claim:

  • Detailed claims process information is not available online.
  • Visit the official contact page: americansamoa.gov/contactus to reach the appropriate department for unclaimed property inquiries.
  • Email: info@go.as.gov
  • Phone: (684) 633-4116
  • Fax: (684) 633-2269
  • Mail inquiries to:
    American Samoa Government
    Executive Office Building
    Pago Pago, AS 96799

Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands

Agency: Office of the Governor, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
How to file a claim:

  • Claims process details are not online.
  • For information, visit the contact page: governor.gov.mp/contact/ and fill out the contact form.
  • Phone: (670) 237-2200
  • Mail inquiries to:
    Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
    Ralph DeLeon Guerrero Torres, Governor
    Caller Box 10007
    Saipan, MP 96950

Guam

Agency: Treasurer of Guam
How to file a claim:

  • Detailed claims process information is not available online.
  • Research unclaimed funds at: doa.guam.gov/treasurer-of-guam/
  • Phone: (671) 477-1007
  • Email: unclaimed.checks@doa.guam.gov

Puerto Rico

Agency: Office of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions
How to file a claim:

U.S. Virgin Islands

Agency: United States Virgin Islands Lieutenant Governor — Unclaimed Property
How to file a claim:

  • Detailed claims process information is not available online.
  • For St. Croix inquiries, call (340) 773-6449 or mail to:
    1131 King Street, Suite 101
    Christiansted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands 00820
  • For St. Thomas or St. John, call (340) 774-2991 or mail to:
    5049 Kongens Gade
    St. Thomas, Virgin Islands 00802

Native American Tribes

Agency: Bureau of Indian Affairs; Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians

The Bureau of Indian Affairs and Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians manage funds and assets for Native American citizens under the Individual Indian Monies Program. This includes trust land, and earnings from oil, gas, agriculture, grazing, and mining leases.

How to file a claim:

  • Search for unclaimed property at doi.gov/ost/wau by entering your full name and tribal affiliation.
  • Call (888) 678-6836 for assistance.
  • Mail inquiries to:
    Office of the Special Trustee (OST)
    Attn: Trust Beneficiary Call Center
    4400 Masthead St., NE
    Albuquerque, NM 87109

How to Claim Unclaimed Tax Money From the IRS

When you file your income taxes, a refund is a nice surprise — but sometimes the IRS owes you more than you realize. Unclaimed tax refunds happen when money due to you hasn’t been received for various reasons.

What Are Unclaimed Tax Refunds?

An unclaimed tax refund is money the IRS owes you that hasn’t reached you yet. This can happen if:

  • You didn’t realize you were owed a refund.
  • You worked part-time and didn’t file taxes, even though some taxes were withheld.
  • Your income was below the filing threshold, so you didn’t file, but you made estimated tax payments.
  • You didn’t know you qualified for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which helps low- and moderate-income taxpayers.
  • You neglected to file a tax return for a deceased family member who may have been owed a refund.
  • Refunds were undeliverable due to address changes or the IRS not being able to locate you.

You can check if you qualify for the EITC using the IRS EITC Assistant here:
https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/use-the-eitc-assistant

How to Find and Claim Unclaimed Tax Refunds

1. Review Your Records

Check if you have filed tax returns for the last three years—the IRS allows refunds claims within this timeframe. If you haven’t filed, you may be missing out on refunds.

2. Contact the IRS for Your Tax Records

Use the IRS Get Transcript Service to access important documents:
https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript

Available transcripts include:

  • Tax return transcripts
  • Tax account transcripts
  • Records of account
  • Wage and income transcripts
  • Verification of non-filing letters

To request transcripts online, you’ll need:

  • Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Date of birth
  • Filing status and mailing address from your last tax return
  • Email address
  • Credit card or loan account number (for identity verification)
  • Mobile phone linked to your name or mailing address to receive activation codes

To request transcripts by mail, you’ll need:

3. File Missing Tax Returns

If you find you haven’t filed for any year within the last three years, file those returns to claim any refunds:

4. Recalculate Previous Returns for Errors

Mistakes on tax returns can cause missed refunds. Review your past returns carefully to see if you qualify for additional credits or deductions like the EITC.

If you’re unsure how much refund you are owed, request a copy of your tax records via:

5. Track Your Refund

If you know you’re owed money but haven’t received it, use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool: https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund

You’ll need your:

  • SSN or ITIN
  • Filing status
  • Exact refund amount

How to Avoid Unclaimed Property Scams

Some third-party companies offer to find unclaimed property for you. While some may be helpful, many are scams. Here’s how to protect yourself:

  • Verify if the company is legitimate—check licenses, BBB profile, and contact info.
  • Beware of unsolicited calls claiming to have your money—government agencies usually don’t call about refunds.
  • Never pay advance fees.
  • Don’t provide sensitive personal or financial info unless you’re certain the company is trustworthy and secure.
  • Avoid companies pressuring you to sign nondisclosure agreements.

To report fraud, contact the Federal Trade Commission here:
https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/

Tips to Avoid Losing Track of Refunds in the Future

  • Keep your contact info (address, phone, email) updated with the IRS, banks, and DMV.
  • Cash checks promptly, including paychecks and tax refunds.
  • Verify payment amounts before cashing checks.
  • Consolidate accounts to simplify management.
  • Maintain up-to-date records of all financial accounts, insurance policies, stocks, and deposits.
  • Store important documents, account numbers, tax records, and passwords safely and keep them for 7 to 10 years.
  • Appoint a trusted representative or executor to manage your financial affairs if you become unreachable.

By Admin –

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