As millions of Americans struggle financially as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, now is an excellent moment to look for any additional income.
We’re not talking about looking under the couch cushions for spare change or expecting to discover $20 in your coat pocket. Looking online might help you locate money you’ve forgotten about. There’s a good chance there’s some cash with your name on it.
According to the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators, 1 out of every 10 Americans has unclaimed property or money floating about someplace (NAUPA).
This money is derived from monies discovered in banks, financial institutions, or businesses that have not been in communication with the owner for more than a year and have been given over to the state. It’s usually a neglected bank or savings account, an uncashed paycheck, stocks, security deposits, customer overpayments, unredeemed gift cards, or an IRS tax return.
Select delves deeper into ways to recover money owing to you and how to cash in on money you’ve earned but may have forgotten about.
How to Find Your Lost Money
During this period, a neglected savings account or a missing salary might be a lifeline for many individuals. Fortunately, there are reliable websites that may assist you in your hunt for these financial windfalls.
To begin, go to NAUPA’s website Unclaimed.org, which is a national network that collects information from all 50 states. There are connections to each state’s official unclaimed property program from there. Because these are all vetted government resources, it’s critical that you use NAUPA-provided websites rather than a general search engine.
Clicking on a state will take you to its official webpage. If you officially changed your last name, look for your unclaimed money using both your current and maiden names. You might also wish to try various search queries, such as using your first initial plus your complete last name.
Because unclaimed property is reported to the state in where the firm or organization is situated, it is typical to have lost money in more than one location, particularly if you have relocated between states. NAUPA suggests utilizing MissingMoney.com, a free website they recommend, to search numerous states at once. Check every state in which you have resided or done business.
How to claim unclaimed money: Each state has its own process when you’re ready to claim your lost money, but it should be pretty straightforward. You need to be prepared to show proof of ownership of whatever you are claiming such as a pay stub, utility bill or your Social Security number. You will also need to have proof of identity, like a copy of your driver’s license or passport. Processing times vary by state but some can take less than 30 days, the NAUPA website says.
Well, that’s it. Now it’s time for you to go check and see if you have any free Money waiting for you to claim. After all, it’s YOUR money!