One State Has Over $20 Billion in Unclaimed Money — Find Out How to Claim Yours!

Billions of dollars in unclaimed money in New York are waiting for their owners

Why it matters: the process is free and has no expiration date

What’s next: more searches and modernization of state systems

Millions of people in the United States may have forgotten money without realizing it. Funds from old bank accounts, uncashed checks, or unused gift cards end up in state custody after long periods of inactivity.

In some states, the accumulated amounts exceed historic levels—and they can be claimed at no cost.

Unclaimed Money in New York: Eye-Opening Figures

According to the New York State Office of the Comptroller, more than $20 billion in unclaimed funds are available to current and former residents of the state.

The Office of Unclaimed Funds works daily to return this money to its rightful owners.

We’re glad to partner with @SenatorLeaWebb at the Health Resource Fair in Tompkins County! We’ll be there to help residents check for lost money.

Oct. 7 | 5–7 PM
Greater Ithaca Activities Center

Can’t make it? Check here: https://t.co/8iypNDyUZI

— Thomas P. DiNapoli (@NYSComptroller) October 3, 2025

Among the unclaimed property are old bank accounts, stock certificates, uncashed checks, and unused gift cards. After a period of inactivity, these funds are legally considered abandoned and transferred to the state—without fees or a time limit to claim them.

Anyone can search their name in the official database to see if they have pending funds.

How to Claim Your Money Step by Step

The process to recover funds is completely free. Once an owner confirms that a property belongs to them, they receive detailed information about the account and the claim amount.

The database is updated daily, so authorities recommend checking frequently. In addition, the office has implemented procedures to speed up the return of properties valued at $250 or less without requiring a formal claim.

Notification letters are also sent, and community events are held to help people recover their money.

Other States With Large Amounts of Unclaimed Funds

New York is not the only state holding large sums:

Maryland maintains $2.76 billion in unclaimed property and returned $121 million during the last fiscal year.

Although the average check is $187, six-figure payments have recently been issued.

Nevada holds more than $1 billion in unclaimed money.

The state treasurer has noted that searching for these funds can help people meet financial goals.

How Unclaimed Funds Can Help You

Frequent moves, name changes, or outdated contact information cause many Latino families to lose track of their money.

Recovering these funds can provide meaningful financial relief—helping cover basic expenses or reduce debt.

What’s Next

States continue modernizing their systems and promoting active searches.

The recommendation is clear: searching is free, easy, and could lead to a positive surprise—especially for anyone who might be owed unclaimed money in New York.