How to Get More Money: The Complete Guide to Finding Money You're Owed
How to Get More Money: The Complete Guide to Finding Money You're Owed
Millions of Americans have money waiting for them — in unclaimed bank accounts, forgotten tax refunds, class action settlements, and government programs. The average unclaimed property check is over $1,000. This guide covers how to find and claim money that's already yours: unclaimed property, class action settlements, government benefits, referral bonuses, and more.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a certified financial planner or advisor before making financial decisions. BON Credit is a free app that helps you find and save money — download it here.
BON Credit searches for money that's already yours — automatically, for free. Unclaimed property, forgotten settlements, government benefits. Your BON agent finds it so you don't have to. Download free →
What Is Unclaimed Property and How Do You Claim It?
Unclaimed property — also called abandoned property — refers to financial assets that have been turned over to the state after a period of inactivity. This includes forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, stocks, life insurance payouts, and utility deposits.
According to the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA), states hold over $40 billion in unclaimed property. Every year, more accounts go dormant and more money gets turned over to state coffers.
To claim unclaimed property:
- Visit MissingMoney.com — the official multi-state search database
- Search by your full legal name and state
- Also check your state's official unclaimed property website directly
- Submit a claim with required documentation (ID, proof of address, SSN)
- Wait 2–8 weeks for processing
You should search every state you've ever lived in, worked in, or had a bank account in. Claims are free — never pay a "finder service" to claim your own money.
Class Action Settlements: Money You May Already Qualify For
Class action lawsuits settle for billions of dollars every year — and most settlement money goes unclaimed because people simply don't know they qualify. If you've ever purchased a product, used a service, or been a customer of a large company, you may be owed money from a settlement.
Major settlement databases to check:
- ClassAction.org — comprehensive list of open settlements
- TopClassActions.com — active settlements with payout estimates
- Your state attorney general's website for state-level settlements
Common settlement categories: data breaches, consumer product defects, bank fee overcharges, antitrust violations, and privacy violations. Many settlements pay $25–$500 per claimant, and filing takes 5–10 minutes.
Government Benefits Most People Don't Know They Qualify For
The federal government offers hundreds of assistance programs, and many working and middle-class Americans qualify without realizing it. The Benefits.gov portal lists all federal programs and includes a screening tool to check eligibility.
Programs often missed:
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) — worth up to $7,430 for qualifying families; 1 in 5 eligible people don't claim it
- SNAP (Food Stamps) — many working families qualify; average benefit is $230/month
- Premium Tax Credits — reduces health insurance costs for people buying marketplace plans
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) — helps with utility bills
- Lifeline Program — discounted phone/internet service
Tax Refunds and Overpayments
The IRS holds billions in unclaimed refunds every year. If you didn't file a return, you have three years to claim a refund. Refunds from amended returns can take 16–20 weeks to process.
According to the IRS, the average unclaimed refund is over $900. To check if you have an unclaimed refund: visit IRS.gov and use the "Where's My Refund?" tool, or call 1-800-829-1040.
Referral Bonuses and Bank Account Signup Bonuses
Banks and financial apps routinely offer $200–$500 to open a new account. Credit card companies offer signup bonuses worth $500–$1,500 in travel rewards or cash back. These aren't tricks — they're legitimate marketing costs that you can take advantage of.
Best practices for signup bonuses:
- Read all requirements before signing up (minimum deposit, spending threshold)
- Track bonus timeline and requirements
- Don't pay annual fees that exceed the bonus value
- Close accounts carefully — account age affects credit score
How BON Credit Helps You Find Money
BON Credit's AI agent continuously scans for unclaimed property, open class action settlements you may qualify for, and government benefits based on your profile. Instead of manually searching dozens of databases, you get a single alert: "We found $850 in your name."
Your BON agent is already looking for money in your name. Download free and see what it finds in 2 minutes.Get started →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find unclaimed money in my name?
Visit MissingMoney.com to search across multiple states at once, or check your specific state's unclaimed property website. Search every state you've lived or worked in. The process is free — never pay a service to claim your own money.
How long does it take to receive unclaimed property?
Most states process claims within 2–8 weeks once you submit proper documentation. Complex claims involving deceased relatives or large amounts may take longer. Some states offer expedited processing for smaller claims.
Is unclaimed property really free?
Yes. States hold your money and return it at no cost. Avoid third-party "finder services" that charge 10–40% of your claim — you can file directly with the state for free and keep 100% of what's yours.
Can I claim class action money if I didn't join the lawsuit?
Often yes. Many class action settlements include anyone who purchased a product or used a service during a certain period, even if you never filed a complaint. Check settlement databases to see if you qualify.
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Key Takeaways
- States hold over $40 billion in unclaimed property — search every state you've lived in
- Class action settlements pay billions annually; most money goes unclaimed
- The EITC is worth up to $7,430 — 1 in 5 eligible Americans don't claim it
- Bank signup bonuses can be worth $200–$500; just read the fine print
- BON Credit automates the search for money in your name — free
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a certified financial planner or advisor before making financial decisions. BON Credit is a free app that helps you find and save money — download it here.
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.