Did you know billions of dollars are sitting unclaimed? In fact, 1 in 7 people have unclaimed or “abandoned” property in their name. When money issued by a government, business, or financial institution goes uncollected (think: uncashed checks or forgotten refunds), it’s sent to state treasuries and listed in an unclaimed property database.
Examples of property waiting to be claimed can include lost tax refunds, uncashed stimulus checks, unclaimed wages, matured savings bonds or CDs, old gift cards, insurance payouts, money owed to deceased relatives, and more.
The average claim in 2023 was $1,154, though some are under $25 and others in the thousands. You may even have multiple claims.
The claim itself isn’t, but interest earned on financial accounts or stocks could be.
Use official state websites or MissingMoney.com. There is never a fee to search or claim. You’ll need to provide documentation like your Social Security number.
Since unclaimed property is dealing with money and your sensitive information, be wary of scammers:
Over $4.5 billion was returned to rightful owners in 2024 — don’t miss out on what’s rightfully yours.
Chris Cicalese, CPA, MSTFP discusses the hidden treasure hunt of searching for unclaimed property in your name.
Empowering business owners and individuals in South Jersey and Philadelphia to feel confident through proactive accounting and advisory solutions.
