It is possible that you have unclaimed money even though you were never aware of it. Today, searching for and claiming unclaimed money is made easy with the assistance of various websites and organizations. Here are some examples of the type of funds that may go unclaimed:

• U.S. Securities and Payments
• Insurance Refunds from HUD or the FHA
• Credit Unions
• Pensions
• Savings Accounts
• Checking Accounts
• Checks that have never been cashed
• Wages
• Utility Refunds
• Oil Royalties
• Bail Bonds
• Child Support Payments

There are a number of different sites and organizations that you will need to access to see if you have unclaimed money. Since each state has its own treasury department, it is important to search in various states where you have lived. However, there is a main database that is comprised of the various state agencies where you should begin your search. It is the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators. You can access it here. NAUPA By visiting the NAUPA website, you can access each state’s Department of Treasury individually and begin your search for unclaimed property.

There is another site that is an excellent resource for finding unclaimed money. It is also endorsed by NAUPA. It is called, Missing Money and it is a great resource that accesses all of the state’s databases by simply entering a name and state. You can also choose to search through all states for the widest results possible. You can visit Missing Money here: Missing Money, It is free to search and the site returns enough information that you should feel comfortable claiming your lost money. For example, not only does the search return the results for your selected name, but it also gives the last known address, as well as the name of the company or organization that has the unclaimed money. Currently Missing Money has 35 states listed in their database and they are continually adding more to their system.

Here are some additional sites that will help make your search for unclaimed money a bit easier. First there is Treasury Hunt. This site will let you search for lost savings bonds, securities, and interest payments that you haven’t received. You can access Treasury Hunt here: Treasury Hunt

Here is the website to determine if you are eligible for a HUD or FHA refund. HUD Refunds.

If you unclaimed money with a credit union you can look for your name on their list here: National Credit Union Administration. They also have links to state treasury websites as well.

The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation exists to ensure that Missing Participants reclaim their money. You can visit their site here: PBGC

Some of the situations that could cause you to have unclaimed money include:

• Recently retiring from your place of employment
• Recently being laid off from work
• Not making a recent transaction in your checking account
• Not making a recent transaction in your savings account
• Stopped paying an insurance policy
• Not leaving a forwarding address when moving
• Having checks that were never cashed
• Settled a relative’s estate

It is also important to note that you may have unclaimed money due to activity that your parents or other relatives initiated. When searching for unclaimed funds, you should not only include states that you lived in, but also states that family members resided in as well.

There are a number of different resources available on the Internet that will assist you with your search for unclaimed money. Two sites that are worthy of mention include Missing Money and the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators. Both of these sites are free and you can begin your search by simply entering your name and state of residence. Be sure to enter all states where you have lived previously as well. If you do find that you have unclaimed money waiting, you will have to fill out the online forms and send them enough information to verify that you are indeed the legal owner of the property. Once you have verified that you are the rightful owner, you will then need to send in any forms that are required. It is important that you follow every step of the process accurately to ensure that you receive the funds.

It is also vital to realize that there are many companies (firms) out there, who will access the same databases that you can use to find your unclaimed money for you. After they determine the rightful owner, they offer their services for a fee. If they can find your unclaimed funds, you can too. You may want to think twice before choosing to pay someone for work that you can perform yourself. If you are too busy and wish to hire a firm, be sure to double check the company’s history and ensure that they are a reputable company. There are certain laws in place that limit the amount a search firm can charge for a finder’s fee. Typically, these firms will charge you a percentage of the value of the unclaimed money or property. Always double-check the credentials of any company before entering into an agreement with them. It is estimated that over 26 million citizens are the rightful owners of unclaimed money and property.