Did you know that Texas is holding billions of dollars in unclaimed property? Yes, it’s true. This is money that belongs to residents but has been forgotten, lost, or left inactive. From old bank accounts to uncashed checks, Texas keeps it safe—but you need to claim it.
In this guide, we’ll break down what unclaimed property is, how you can search for it, and the step-by-step process to reclaim your money. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to get what’s rightfully yours.
What Is Unclaimed Property in Texas?
Unclaimed property refers to any financial asset that has been inactive or forgotten by its owner. Common examples include:
Old bank accounts – Checking, savings, or CDs you forgot about
Uncashed payroll or bonus checks – From a previous employer
Utility deposits and refunds – Water, electricity, or gas deposits
Insurance payouts – Life insurance or policy refunds
Stocks, dividends, and investments – Forgotten shares or dividends
Health savings accounts or retirement funds – Accounts left inactive
In short, if you were entitled to money at some point but didn’t claim it, it could now be listed as unclaimed property with the state of Texas.
How Much Money Is Waiting in Texas?
Texas holds billions in unclaimed property, with Austin alone accounting for hundreds of millions. While the amount per person varies:
Many residents find $20 to a few hundred dollars.
Some uncover larger sums, $1,000 or more, from investments or forgotten deposits.
It’s completely free to claim your money—no fees if you use the official process.
Even small amounts add up, and it’s worth checking regularly.
How Residents Can Claim Unclaimed Property in Texas
Claiming unclaimed property is easier than most people think. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide:
1. Start With the Official Website
Visit the Texas unclaimed property site: https://claimittexas.org
This is the only official and free resource to find and claim your money.
2. Search for Your Name
Enter your full name, including any maiden or previous names.
You can search in your current city or all of Texas if you’ve moved.
Double-check spelling and possible variations—sometimes money is listed under slight name changes.
3. Review Your Listings
Look carefully at each entry: the source, year, and type of property.
Make note of any claims that belong to you or family members.
4. Submit a Claim
Click on the property you want to claim.
Fill out the claim form online.
Provide proof of identity, which may include:
Social Security number
Current address
Previous addresses
Identification documents
5. Follow Up and Wait
Some claims are simple and processed in a few days.
More complex claims—like inheritance, corporate accounts, or old dividends—may take weeks or months.
The Texas comptroller’s office may contact you if additional documentation is needed.
Tips for a Smooth Claim Process
Claiming unclaimed property in Texas can be quick if you’re organized. Keep these tips in mind:
Check multiple times a year – New listings are added frequently.
Have documents ready – Social Security, IDs, old addresses.
Notify family members – Parents or relatives might have unclaimed property too.
Avoid third-party services – They often charge fees, but it’s free if you claim directly.
Be patient – Processing can vary depending on the type of property.
Real-Life Stories
Many residents have successfully claimed unclaimed property in Texas:
One Austin resident found $400 from old accounts in just a week.
Another uncovered $2,000 linked to a relative’s dividends.
Small finds—like $24, $60, or $80—still count as free money.
Larger, more complex claims can take months, but the payout is often worth the wait.
Common Questions About Unclaimed Property in Texas
Is it a scam?
No. Use only the official website https://claimittexas.org. Avoid third-party services that ask for fees.
Do I have to pay to claim my money?
Absolutely not. Filing directly with the state is free.
What if I moved or changed my name?
Include all previous names and addresses. The search system can handle variations.
How long does it take to get the money?
Simple claims: 5–10 days
Complex claims (dividends, inheritance, HSA): Several weeks to months
Why Texas Holds So Much Unclaimed Property
Businesses and banks are legally required to hand over inactive accounts to the state after a set period. This can include:
Forgotten deposits
Uncashed checks
Overpayments
Inactive investments
The money doesn’t disappear—it sits safely with the state until claimed by its rightful owner.
Why You Should Claim It
Unclaimed property is your money. Every dollar counts. Here’s why you should act now:
Even small amounts can cover bills, groceries, or emergencies.
It’s legally yours, waiting without interest or fees.
Checking is quick and free.
You might find money from past jobs, old accounts, or family inheritances.
Quick Checklist to Claim Your Unclaimed Property in Texas
Visit https://claimittexas.org
Search your name and previous variations
Review each listing carefully
Submit your claim online with proof of identity
Follow up if additional documentation is requested
Don’t leave your money behind—search for your unclaimed property in Texas today! Reach out to our consultants to learn about the process in-depth.
FAQs: Unclaimed Property Texas
1. What is unclaimed property in Texas?
Unclaimed property in Texas refers to financial assets that have been forgotten or left inactive by their owners. Common examples include old bank accounts, savings, CDs, uncashed payroll or bonus checks, utility deposits and refunds, and insurance payouts or dividends. The Texas Comptroller’s office holds this property until the rightful owner claims it. Residents can search and recover their funds for free through the official website.
2. How can I search for unclaimed property in Texas?
You can search for unclaimed property in Texas using the official website at https://claimittexas.org. To search:
Enter your full name and any previous names.
Include past addresses if applicable.
Browse the results and identify property that belongs to you.
Submit a claim with proof of identity.
The search covers all Texas residents and can help even if you previously lived in multiple states.
3. Who is eligible to claim unclaimed property in Texas?
Eligibility extends to:
Texas residents who currently own or once owned the property
Heirs or legal representatives of deceased owners
Former residents who left property behind in Texas
You must provide proof of ownership, such as Social Security number, identification, or previous addresses. Each claim is verified to ensure funds go to the rightful owner.
4. Is it free to claim unclaimed property in Texas?
Yes, claiming unclaimed property in Texas is completely free when done through the official state website. Avoid third-party services that charge fees—they are unnecessary. Simple claims often take 5–10 days to process, while more complex claims, such as inheritance or business accounts, can take several weeks.
5. What types of unclaimed property exist in Texas?
Types of unclaimed property include:
Bank accounts and CDs left inactive
Payroll or bonus checks not cashed
Utility deposits or refunds from electricity, water, or gas companies
Insurance payouts or policy refunds
Investments and dividends from stocks or mutual funds
Health savings accounts (HSA) or retirement funds
Essentially, any financial asset owed to you that hasn’t been claimed could fall under unclaimed property.
6. How long does it take to receive unclaimed property in Texas?
Processing times depend on the type of property:
Simple claims (e.g., small bank accounts) may be completed in 5–10 business days.
Complex claims (e.g., inherited funds, dividends, HSA accounts) may take several weeks to months.
The state may contact you for additional documentation, which can affect processing time. Patience is key, but all legitimate claims are eventually paid.
7. Can I claim unclaimed property if I moved out of Texas?
Yes. Even if you no longer live in Texas, you can claim property held in the state. Include past Texas addresses, any previous names (maiden or legal changes), and other identifying information. The state ensures rightful owners receive their property, regardless of current residency.
8. What documents are needed to claim unclaimed property?
To verify ownership, the Texas Comptroller may require:
Government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport)
Social Security number
Proof of previous addresses
Legal documentation if claiming on behalf of a deceased owner
Providing accurate information upfront can speed up the claim process.
9. Why does Texas hold unclaimed property?
Texas holds unclaimed property as a legal safeguard. Businesses and financial institutions must turn over inactive or abandoned assets to the state after a set period. This ensures that:
Funds remain safe until claimed
Owners or heirs have a secure way to recover money
Public accountability and transparency are maintained in managing forgotten assets
10. How often should I check for unclaimed property in Texas?
It’s a good idea to search regularly:
Annually or biannually for new listings
Whenever your personal information changes (new address or name)
If you recently moved out of Texas or inherited property
New claims are added frequently, so checking periodically increases your chances of finding unclaimed money.
