How to Claim Money the Government Owes You in 2026
How to Claim Money the Government Owes You in 2026
If you're wondering how to claim money the government owes you, here's the answer: search for unclaimed funds through government databases and file claims online. This guide covers databases to search, claim steps, and tools to simplify 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
BON is the AI that handles the money stuff you keep putting off. Finds your unclaimed money. Flags your interest leaks. Tells you the one thing to do next. Free.Download the app →
Finding Unclaimed Money: First Steps
You can start claiming money the government owes you by checking official unclaimed property databases. Every state in the U.S. holds onto unclaimed funds from forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, and more. The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) is a good starting point. Search their database to find unclaimed assets in your name.
In 2021, there was over $49 billion in unclaimed funds across the nation (source: NAUPA). Imagine what you might find!
Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Your Money
To claim money the government owes you, follow these steps:
- Search State Databases: Visit the NAUPA website and access your state's unclaimed property database.
- Submit a Claim: If you find unclaimed assets, complete the claim form provided by the state. Have your identification and proof of ownership ready.
- Wait for Processing: Claims typically process within 30 to 90 days. The state will contact you with updates.
Using Federal Resources to Find Unclaimed Money
The federal government also holds unclaimed funds. Use the FDIC to check for money from failed banks. The U.S. Treasury offers a tool for finding matured savings bonds. Another resource is the IRS for unclaimed tax refunds.
In many cases, these federal resources can lead to discovering substantial amounts of money.
How BON Credit Simplifies the Process
While you can manually search for unclaimed funds, BON Credit makes it easy by automating the process. Your BON agent regularly scans for unclaimed property and alerts you if it finds money in your name. It saves you time and effort, ensuring you don't miss out on money that's already yours.
Compared to manual searches, BON Credit acts proactively to keep you informed about potential claims.
| Option | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| NAUPA Database | General Search | Access to state-specific unclaimed funds |
| FDIC | Bank Failures | Recovering funds from closed banks |
| BON Credit | Automated Discovery | Regular scans for unclaimed money |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unclaimed money?
Unclaimed money refers to funds held by the government that haven't been claimed by their rightful owner. This can include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, or unclaimed life insurance payouts.
How do I know if I have unclaimed money?
You can check for unclaimed money by searching state and federal databases, such as the NAUPA website or the FDIC's resources. BON Credit can also assist by scanning for unclaimed funds in your name.
Is there a time limit to claim unclaimed money?
In most cases, there is no time limit to claim unclaimed funds. However, it's best to check with specific state regulations, as some may have deadlines.
Can I claim unclaimed money for someone else?
Typically, you can claim unclaimed money on behalf of someone else if you are a legal heir or have power of attorney. Documentation proving your right to claim the funds is usually required.
Your BON agent handles this automatically — for free. It runs in the background, finds money you're missing, and tells you exactly what to do. No spreadsheets. No stress. Download BON free →
By following these steps, you can potentially find unclaimed money that belongs to you. Whether you choose manual searches or BON Credit's automated approach, getting back money that's already yours is an achievable goal. Take control of your finances and let your BON agent find more money in your pocket.
- Over $49 billion in unclaimed funds exist across the United States.
- Claims typically process within 30 to 90 days.
- BON Credit automates unclaimed money searches for free.
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About BON Credit
BON Credit is an AI-powered personal finance app that finds money you're missing, saves money you're losing, and helps you manage money smarter. Built by Stanford alumni. Used by thousands of people who want more money in their pocket. Download free on iOS & Android.