Find Unclaimed Money in Washington

Unclaimed money in Washington includes financial assets that have been turned over to the state after owners could not be contacted. These funds often come from banks, former employers, insurance companies, utilities, or investment firms after periods of inactivity. Common examples include forgotten checking accounts, uncashed payroll checks, insurance benefits, and utility deposits.

Washington residents and former residents can search for unclaimed money in Washington at no cost through the state’s official program. If your name, a business name, or a past address appears in the records, you may be entitled to claim those funds directly from the state.

Search Washington’s Official Unclaimed Money Database

Washington operates a state-run unclaimed money program to safeguard lost or forgotten assets until they are claimed. Searching the database and submitting a claim is completely free, and no third-party service is required. All claims are reviewed and processed directly by the state of Washington.
Search for Unclaimed Money in Washington

How to Search for Unclaimed Money in Washington

  1. Visit Washington’s official unclaimed money search portal.
  2. Enter your full name, including any previous names or business names used in the state.
  3. Review matching records and note any listed addresses or holders tied to your history in Washington.
  4. Select the property you believe belongs to you and begin the online claim form.
  5. Submit the required documentation to verify ownership and track your claim status through the state system.
Washington unclaimed money search for residents and former residents

Types of Unclaimed Money Held by Washington

Washington holds a wide range of unclaimed assets on behalf of individuals and businesses. These funds are transferred to the state for safekeeping until claimed by the rightful owner.
  • Bank accounts
  • Uncashed checks, including payroll and vendor payments
  • Insurance proceeds and policy benefits
  • Utility deposits from closed service accounts
  • Securities such as stocks or dividends
  • Safe deposit box contents, which may include tangible items rather than cash
Unlike some states, Washington may hold physical safe deposit box items that require additional identity verification before release.

How the Washington Unclaimed Money Claim Process Works

After a claim is submitted, Washington reviews the information to confirm ownership and prevent fraud. Claimants are typically asked to provide identification and proof linking them to the reported address or account. Processing times vary based on claim complexity, but many straightforward claims are completed within several weeks after documentation is approved.

What If You’ve Lived or Worked in More Than One State?

Unclaimed money is reported to the state tied to the last known address on file, not the claimant’s current residence. If you have moved, changed jobs, or operated a business in multiple states, you may have unclaimed money elsewhere as well. Identity-based search tools can help locate possible matches across states.
All claims are completed through official state programs.

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Washington Unclaimed Money FAQs

Is it free to claim unclaimed money in Washington?
Yes. Washington does not charge any fee to search for or claim unclaimed money. The entire process is handled through the state’s official program, and claimants receive the full value of approved claims without paying a percentage to the state or a third party.
Washington holds unclaimed money indefinitely until the rightful owner or an eligible heir submits a valid claim. There is no expiration date for claiming funds, even if the property was reported many years ago.
Yes. Claimants must provide government-issued identification and documentation showing a connection to the listed name or address. This helps ensure that funds are returned only to verified owners or authorized representatives.
Heirs may claim unclaimed money if the original owner is deceased. Additional documents, such as death certificates or probate records, may be required to establish the legal right to receive the funds.
Processing time depends on the type of claim and documentation submitted. Simple claims may be resolved within a few weeks, while more complex claims involving estates or businesses can take longer for review.
Washington’s unclaimed money program is administered by the state treasury, which is responsible for collecting, safeguarding, and returning unclaimed assets to their rightful owners.
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