We all fantasize about a day we learn a large sum of money is left to us or somehow finds its way to our bank account.  This possibility of a grand payout is certainly unlikely but searching for unclaimed money in your name can be quite rewarding. Unclaimed money is money owed to you by the government that has not been collected.  Unclaimed funds can also come from sources such as banks, credit unions, previous employers etc.  Many free official sources exist for you to find funds owed to you.

Finding Your Unclaimed Money

Unfortunately, there is not one central source to look for unclaimed money. It’s best to begin exploring free official sources.  Normally you only need to provide your name to begin your search. The best place to start is within your current state. Perform a quick Free search here. For those who think they may be owed back wages from an employer, searches can be performed on the Department of Labor website. If you believe the IRS may owe you money, visit the IRS website in search of unclaimed or undelivered tax refunds.  You can also search for other types of unclaimed funds using the below sites:

VA Life Insurance Funds

• Search the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs for unclaimed insurance funds owed to current and former policyholders or beneficiaries.

Pensions From Former Employers

• Search the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation for unclaimed pensions. 

Bank Failures

• Search the FDIC for unclaimed money from failed bank institutions.

Credit Union Failures

• Search unclaimed deposits from credit unions.

SEC Claim Funds

• The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission allows you to determine if a company or person owes investors money.

Foreign Claims

• The U.S. Department of Treasury allows U.S. Nationals to find money owed to them by foreign governments.

For those who do not find any unclaimed funds owed to them, it's best to search these sites periodically as databases are updated.

Claiming Your Funds

Congratulations if you’ve have found money owed to you!  You must now properly claim the funds by verifying your identity.  The requirements will vary by state but generally, individuals will need the following forms of proof:

• A state-issued I.D.
• Social Security Card or IRS Form W-2
• Proof of the address associated with the property you’re claiming
• Proof of current address

Providing these documents will help prove you are the rightful owner of the missing money.  Once, you have verified your identity you can begin filing a claim.  The process for filing a claim will also vary based on the state you reside. Be sure to follow the claim instructions very carefully to prevent any delay in receiving your funds!