Where and How to Find Unclaimed Money and Property from State Treasuries

Unclaimed property such as cash, mutual funds, insurance policies, royalty payments, trust funds, escrow accounts, safekeeping items, mineral interests, and stock are waiting in every treasury, in every state, in the United States and also the District of Columbia. Even if you don’t believe that there is anything waiting for you, take a few minutes and explore your current state treasury, along with any states where you have lived. Be sure you also look under any names you have used, including maiden and married names and company names.

State Treasuries

The designs of the websites vary from state to state, and many states have their own byline for unclaimed property. For instance there is Money Quest Alabama, The Great Colorado Payback and Cash Dash Illinois, which are just a few examples.

In reviewing each state treasury website, it’s clear that they are user friendly, and want to ensure that unclaimed property is returned to the rightful owners. Most ask for only a last name or company name to explore whether there is unclaimed property. You can add your first name as well, but some of the properties are listed under a first initial rather then a full first name. Start with general information, such as last name only, and then begin to narrow your search.

Don’t limit yourself by putting in a city, especially if you have had a variety of addresses within the state. Different addresses may appear with the same name.

You can either go directly to your state treasurer’s website, or for a complete list of every state’s website, along with the District of Columbia, click on this link:

http://law.freeadvice.com/resources/unclaimed_property.htm

My Experience

I found my name on websites in two states where I lived, My states listed dollar amounts with <$10, >$50.00, and >$100.00, not exact amounts. I did have to notarize the affidavits I filled out because the dollar amount owed was over $100. My states also required proof that I lived at the addresses listed. The claims took over three months to be processed and mailed.

Please note, not every state lists dollar amounts at all. By filling out the documentation for your state, you may have a better idea about the dollar value owed to you.

When Claiming

Remember that you are dealing with the government. Specific documentation is required, so be sure you have everything submitted correctly. Your claim will be delayed without proper documentation. They may ask for information about a name change or about the address for the unclaimed property. You will have to fill out an affidavit form, which may also need to be notarized.

The forms and instructions are very manageable, but again, make sure that you follow the directions and provide everything they ask for, as claims take at least 12-18 weeks. Should you not enclose the correct documentation, they will send it back to you.

Mutual funds, safekeeping items and stock may have a physical certificate agent notifying you that shares were transferred electronically. That letter may include instructions on the different ways to access your shares and may also take 6-8 weeks longer.

Pass This Forward

Take the time to research all of your family members and your friends. I’ve passed on this information to the many that I found, from a variety of states. I used the link above and clicked through states where my friends and family live or have lived. One friend that I found had in excess of $1,000! Everyone you find, will find someone eise, and we will all play a part in helping others to obtain money and property that belongs to them.

Every U.S state treasury wants this unclaimed property to be found! Even if you don't feel there is something waiting for you, you may be pleasantly surprised.