Find Money I Owe: How to Discover and Recover Hidden Funds (2026)

Find Money I Owe: How to Discover and Recover Hidden Funds (2026)

Finding money you owe can uncover forgotten or unclaimed funds in your name. This guide covers how to search for unclaimed property, check your credit report for errors, and use technology to automate the process.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Consult a licensed financial advisor before making major financial decisions.

By Samder Khangarot, Founder of BON Credit | Last updated: April 2026

How to Search for Unclaimed Property

Unclaimed property includes forgotten bank accounts, refunds, or insurance payments. According to the CFPB, billions of dollars in unclaimed funds exist nationwide. Start with these steps:

1. Visit your state's unclaimed property website.
2. Enter your name and check for any matches.
3. Follow the instructions to claim your property.

Your BON agent can handle this automatically, saving you time.

Check Your Credit Report for Errors

Your credit report may contain errors that falsely show money you owe. Check your report to ensure accuracy. The Federal Reserve suggests examining reports annually.

The steps:

1. Request a free credit report from each bureau: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
2. Look for unfamiliar accounts or incorrect balances.
3. Dispute any errors directly with the credit bureau.

Utilize Technology to Find Lost Money

Technology simplifies the process of finding money you owe. Apps like BON Credit automate searches for unclaimed property, saving you potentially over $200. BON also alerts you to potential debts you may have overlooked.

Finding Hidden Money in Forgotten Accounts

Forgotten accounts, like old savings accounts, may hold funds you forgot about. The FDIC recommends checking with previous banks for forgotten accounts.

1. Contact banks where you previously held accounts.
2. Provide identification to retrieve information.
3. Transfer found funds to an active account.

Reclaiming Unclaimed Tax Refunds

If you didn't file a tax return, you might have unclaimed refunds with the IRS. Typically, you have three years to claim them. Visit the IRS website to check for any unclaimed refunds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unclaimed property?

Unclaimed property refers to financial assets held by an entity when the owner cannot be contacted. This includes bank accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, and insurance payments.

How often should I check for unclaimed money?

Check for unclaimed money annually. This aligns with reviewing your credit report, ensuring you remain aware of any assets or debts.

Can I find money owed to someone else?

You can assist family members in searching for unclaimed property by using their information, as long as you have their consent.

How does BON Credit help find money?

BON Credit automates searches for unclaimed property, checks for errors on your credit reports, and alerts you about potential liabilities. It's a comprehensive tool for managing your finances effortlessly.

By searching for unclaimed funds, checking your credit report, and using technology, you may find money you owe and improve your financial health. Let your BON agent handle the heavy lifting for more money in your pocket.