What is the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA)?

The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) is an organization that helps people find unclaimed property at no cost. Unclaimed property refers to things like money, assets, or valuables that have been abandoned or forgotten. NAUPA works with state governments to track and return this property to its rightful owners.

How can MissingMoney.com help me?

 NAUPA's MissingMoney.com can assist you in your property search and save you time as you'll be able to search for unclaimed checking and savings accounts, uncashed payroll checks, utility deposits, refund checks, money orders, traveler’s checks, mineral proceeds, and life insurance proceeds all in one place. "If attempts to contact the owner are unsuccessful, the property is transferred to the custody of the state for safekeeping and eventual return to the rightful owner," according to MissingMoney.com.

Can anyone use NAUPA?

There are no eligibility requirements to use MissingMoney.com, so anyone —including you—can access it at no cost.

How do I search for unclaimed property?

To search for unclaimed property through NAUPA, visit the website MissingMoney.com. On the homepage, you will find a box labeled “Claim Property,” where you can enter your first and last name. You can then filter by state, and a list of all unclaimed property under that name will appear.

Another way to search is to scroll down the NAUPA homepage to see a U.S. map. Click on your state of residence, which will take you to your state’s office responsible for unclaimed property. There, you can search by entering your first and last name to find any unclaimed property.

How do I claim property?

Once you find unclaimed property you think is yours, you will claim it. This might look different depending on the website or state site, but usually, you’ll click a button that says "Claim." After that, you'll need to provide some basic information like your full name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. Websites like MissingMoney.com and state government sites are secure, so your information is safe.

After you submit your claim, the state will send you an email or letter. This may include a form with instructions on what proof you need to provide to show the property is yours. Many states let you upload documents online, which can make the process faster. Since each state has different requirements, make sure to read the instructions carefully. If you have questions, contact the state where you filed your claim.

Who should I contact if I need help?

If you need assistance during your search for unclaimed property, help with filing a claim, or guidance on what steps to take next, reach out to the department in your state that manages unclaimed property. This varies from state to state—some states handle unclaimed property through the Department of Revenue, while others manage it through the State Treasurer's Office or another designated agency. They should be able to answer any questions you have about unclaimed property and guide you through the process.

I claimed property—now what?

Once you submit your claim, the state's unclaimed property department will verify that you’re the rightful owner and process your claim. They will review any documents you've submitted and confirm your connection to the property. In some states, this process can take less than 30 days, while others may take longer depending on the complexity of the claim.

If your claim is approved, you’ll receive a check for the unclaimed money or get the actual item if it’s something tangible, like jewelry, physical property, or other valuable item.

Frequently asked questions about Unclaimed Property

• What documents do I typically need to claim property?

You’ll typically need two forms of ID. One must be a government-issued photo ID, like your driver’s license. The second can be something like a recent utility bill, phone bill, credit card bill, or bank statement that shows your name and address. If you’ve recently moved, you will need to provide a utility bill to verify your new address.

• What happens if my claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, you will usually receive an explanation from the state about why it was not approved. This could be due to missing information or because they were unable to verify your ownership. If this happens, you may have the option to appeal the decision or submit additional documents or evidence to support your claim. Be sure to carefully follow any instructions provided and reach out to the state’s unclaimed property department if you need help understanding the next steps.

• What if my unclaimed property is from another state?

Yes, you can claim unclaimed property from another state, even if you don’t live there. However, each state has its own rules and requirements. You will need to follow the specific steps for that state, which may include providing documents like proof of identity or address. Visit the state’s unclaimed property website for the details and required documents.