Unclaimed property
Not startedStates hold billions in forgotten bank accounts, paychecks, deposits, and refunds.
Who it may help: Anyone who has moved, changed jobs, or had an account go inactive.
Where to look: Your state treasurer + missingmoney.com (official multi-state)
You may need: Government ID, Proof of past address
Scam warning: Never pay a ‘finder’ more than your state’s legal cap (often 10%). Official searches are free.
Old retirement accounts
Not started401(k)s and pensions left behind at former employers.
Who it may help: Anyone with multiple past jobs.
Where to look: DOL Retirement Savings Lost & Found
You may need: SSN, Employment history
Scam warning: Avoid services that ask for full account access. The federal database is free.
Tax refunds or credits
Not startedUnclaimed federal/state refunds and credits like EITC.
Who it may help: Lower- and middle-income earners who didn’t file.
Where to look: IRS Where’s My Refund + your state DOR
You may need: Prior-year W-2s/1099s, Bank routing info
Scam warning: The IRS never demands payment by gift card or threatens arrest.
Unpaid wages
Not startedBack wages recovered by the Department of Labor but never claimed.
Who it may help: Current and former hourly workers, especially in food service and retail.
Where to look: DOL Workers Owed Wages (WOW) database
You may need: Employer name and dates of employment
Scam warning: DOL never charges a fee to claim back wages.
Class action settlements
Not startedPayouts from lawsuits you may be part of without knowing.
Who it may help: Anyone who used common products, banks, or apps.
Where to look: Official court-approved claim sites
You may need: Proof of purchase, account number, or email
Scam warning: Be suspicious of any site asking for SSN or full bank logins.
Matured savings bonds
Not startedPaper bonds gifted years ago that have stopped earning interest.
Who it may help: Anyone who received bonds as a child or gift.
Where to look: TreasuryDirect Treasury Hunt
You may need: Bond serial numbers if available, ID
Scam warning: Only redeem through TreasuryDirect or an authorized bank.
Benefits and support programs
Not startedPrograms you may qualify for: SNAP, LIHEAP, Medicaid, Lifeline.
Who it may help: Households facing income, energy, or food pressure.
Where to look: Benefits.gov + your state portal
You may need: Income docs, Household info
Scam warning: Application help should be free through nonprofits or state agencies.
