The Lost Treasure Hunt

Have you ever wondered if there's money or assets out there waiting for you?

Here's how to find out and claim them:

Most people are unaware that each state operates an unclaimed property program to reunite individuals with lost or forgotten assets. Five years ago, I found $1,600. This week, I found $50. These assets can range from dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, forgotten security deposits, to unclaimed insurance policies and more.

Why Search for Unclaimed Property?

The concept of unclaimed property arises when financial institutions, businesses, and government agencies cannot locate the rightful owner of a financial asset after a specified period of inactivity. Instead of holding onto these assets indefinitely, they are turned over to the state's unclaimed property division, where they are held until claimed by the rightful owner. It's your money, go get it~!

How to Search

1. Visit Your State's Unclaimed Property Website: Each state has a dedicated website where you can initiate your search. These websites are typically maintained by the state treasurer's office or equivalent authority.

2. Enter Your Information: To begin your search, you'll typically need to enter your name and possibly other identifying information such as previous addresses or your social security number. This helps narrow down the results to ensure you're finding the correct individual.

3. Review the Results: After entering your information, the website will generate a list of any unclaimed assets associated with your name. It's important to review these results carefully, as they may include various types of financial assets.

4. Claim Process: If you find assets that belong to you, each state has a straightforward process for claiming them. This usually involves filling out a claim form, providing proof of identity, and sometimes additional documentation depending on the type and amount of the asset.

Tips

• Check Regularly: It's a good idea to search periodically, especially if you've recently moved or changed your name.

• Search Multiple States: If you've lived in multiple states, consider searching each state's database separately, as unclaimed property is usually held by the state where the institution holding the asset is located. (I've lived in several states, so I checked all of them!)

• Be Wary of Scams: While searching for unclaimed property is legitimate, be cautious of services that charge a fee to search. Most state databases are free to use, and you can claim your assets directly through the state's official website.

Need help or have questions? Reach out!