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Simply put, unclaimed property refers to money (such as insurance refunds, security deposits, and uncashed payroll checks) and physical belongings (like safe deposit box contents) that have been abandoned for an extended period. Businesses are required to reach out to you if you have unclaimed property, but after a certain dormancy period, these assets are handed over to the state. This makes it easier for you to locate and recover what’s rightfully yours.
There are official websites for each state where you can search for unclaimed assets. Just enter your name (usually) and see if you have any abandoned property waiting to be claimed.
Each state has its own unclaimed property website, where you can quickly check if you have assets waiting to be recovered by entering your name or other details. Here's how you can find out if you're owed anything.
How to locate and reclaim unclaimed property that may be waiting for you.
Head over to unclaimed.org, the official site for the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators. Scroll down to the 'Select your state or province' button or click on your state’s location on the map to access your state’s unclaimed property page. This also includes DC, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Canadian provinces.
Each state’s database may look different, but you’ll find a search option for unclaimed property. Depending on your state, you may need to input your last name or business name along with other details like a first name or city, which, while not always required, can help refine your search.
Review the results to see if any listed property belongs to you. Some states provide the amount owed and the name of the company or institution holding the asset, which can help confirm the funds are yours.
If you find property that’s yours, the claim process varies. You might need to select the property and identify your relationship to the claimant (whether it’s you, your business, or an heir) before adding it to a claim cart. You’ll then be asked for more personal details to complete the request. Some states may require you to create an account to start the claims process.
Keep in mind, you can’t just claim random people’s property and expect a check in the mail. You’ll need to prove your identity and submit documents like a Social Security card and photo ID. Be prepared for a lengthy process—it’s not a quick fix for overdue bills or your upcoming rent payment.
[h/t CNET]
