Unclaimed Money: Checks, Savings, and Other Types of Bank Accounts
Discover Hidden Treasures: How to Find Unclaimed Checks, Savings, and Bank Accounts
Unclaimed money is a treasure waiting to be discovered, and some of the most common sources include unclaimed checks, savings, and various types of bank accounts. If you’ve ever changed jobs, moved homes, or even switched banks, you might have unclaimed funds waiting for you. Here’s how to track them down.
FIND UNCLAIMED MONEY
Unclaimed Checks
Did you know that checks issued to you might remain unclaimed if they were lost, forgotten, or not cashed? Here’s what you need to know:
- Payroll Checks: Employers are required to make diligent efforts to contact you. However, if they fail, your unclaimed wages may end up with the state’s unclaimed property office.
- Refund Checks: Overpayments on loans, utilities, or any service may result in refund checks. If you haven’t received yours, check with the issuing entity and your state’s unclaimed property database.
Unclaimed Savings Accounts
Your forgotten savings account could be holding onto money you don’t even remember. Banks consider accounts dormant if there’s no activity for a set period, typically three to five years. After that, the funds may be turned over to the state. Here’s how to reclaim your savings:
- Check with Your Bank: Start by contacting your old banks. Provide your Social Security number and any old account numbers you can recall.
- State Unclaimed Property Office: Each state has a database where you can search for unclaimed accounts. Use your name and previous addresses to search comprehensively.
Other Types of Bank Accounts
Beyond savings, other accounts like checking, certificates of deposit (CDs), and more could hold unclaimed money:
- Checking Accounts: Like savings accounts, checking accounts become dormant after a period of inactivity.
- Certificates of Deposit (CDs): If you didn’t cash out your CD after it matured, the funds might be sitting unclaimed.