You can determine if you have money from the government, particularly unclaimed funds, by checking official state unclaimed property databases. This money often comes from forgotten accounts or uncashed payments that businesses and agencies turn over to the state.
What is Unclaimed Government Money?
Most unclaimed money is held by state governments and originates from various sources. This isn't typically direct financial aid, but rather funds that belong to individuals but have gone dormant or unnoticed over time.
Common sources of unclaimed money include:
- Dormant Bank Accounts: Savings or checking accounts that have been inactive for an extended period.
- Uncashed Checks: This could include payroll checks, refunds, or dividend checks that were never deposited.
- Forgotten Utility Deposits: Security deposits made to utility companies that were never returned after an account closed.
- Insurance Policy Proceeds: Life insurance benefits or other payouts that beneficiaries were unaware of or couldn't be located.
- Contents of Safe Deposit Boxes: Items from safe deposit boxes that were abandoned.
- Stock and Mutual Fund Dividends: Payments from investments that weren't claimed.
How to Search for Your Money
The primary method for finding unclaimed government money is to search through state unclaimed property offices. This process is generally free and straightforward.
Start with Your Current State
Begin your search by looking up the unclaimed property office for the state where you currently reside. Each state maintains a database of unclaimed assets turned over by businesses and organizations.
Check Past States You've Lived In
If you have lived in multiple states, it's crucial to check the unclaimed property offices for all those states as well. Money you're owed might be held in a state where you previously had an address or bank account.
Utilize Official Government Resources
The most reliable way to search is directly through official government websites. A great starting point for a nationwide search is the central portal for unclaimed money:
This resource can guide you to individual state databases.
Tips for a Successful Search
When searching these databases, keep the following tips in mind to maximize your chances of finding funds:
- Search Variations of Your Name: Try different spellings of your first and last name.
- Include Maiden Names or Previous Names: If you've changed your name, search under all previous names.
- Check for Family Members: You might be the beneficiary of unclaimed funds belonging to a deceased relative.
- Search for Businesses: If you owned a business, check for any unclaimed money associated with it.
By diligently checking these state-run resources, you can often uncover funds that rightfully belong to you.
