Why You Should Check for Unclaimed Property Every Year
Why You Should Check for Unclaimed Property Every Year
Every year, billions of dollars in unclaimed property sit untouched in state treasuries across the United States. From forgotten bank accounts and utility deposits to uncashed paychecks and life insurance benefits, this unclaimed money is often overlooked by the people who rightfully own it.
That’s why making an annual habit of checking for unclaimed property is a smart move—for your wallet and your peace of mind.
What is Unclaimed Property?
Unclaimed property includes financial assets that have been inactive or unclaimed by the owner for a specific period of time. These assets are then turned over to the state and held until claimed by the rightful owner. Common examples include:
- Bank accounts
- Paychecks and refunds
- Stocks or dividends
- Life insurance proceeds
- Security deposits
- Gift cards or rebates
Why You Might Have Unclaimed Property
Life moves fast. You change jobs, move to new homes, open and close accounts. In the midst of transitions, it’s easy to forget about old utility deposits, rebate checks, or even insurance payouts.
Sometimes, companies fail to reach you due to outdated contact information or a name change. And if you’ve ever been an executor or heir to a family member’s estate, you might have unclaimed inheritance waiting.
Why Check Every Year?
- New entries are added regularly – Businesses turn over unclaimed property to the state annually.
- Name or address changes matter – Your circumstances change, and so do the ways you might appear in a search.
- It’s free and easy – Checking takes just minutes on trusted websites like MissingMoney.com.
- Protect your identity – If someone else tries to claim property that’s yours, catching it early protects your financial rights.
- You might be surprised – Many people discover hundreds or even thousands of dollars they never knew they had.
How to Search
Visit your state’s unclaimed property website or use https://theunclaimedtreasure.com/, a national database endorsed by most states. Enter your full name, any past names (like a maiden name), and states you’ve lived in.
Final Thought
You wouldn’t skip checking your credit report or updating your passwords annually—so why skip checking for money that might be yours? Add it to your calendar, make it a yearly tradition, and who knows—you might just find your own forgotten treasure.
