- Start your search for unclaimed funds by making a list of every state you have ever lived in, including the state or states you grew up in. If you once lived in a state, you may have some unclaimed funds waiting for you in that state's treasury. You should also make a list of all names you have used, such as your maiden name if you are married or your birth name if you have changed names for any reason.
- Most state treasuries provide a link on their website to a directory of unclaimed funds. At this link, you can search by name for unclaimed funds. Run a search on each state's website for any name that you have used. If a search turns up funds, you can usually click on the listing to find out what the fund is and what you can do to claim it.
- It is usually best to search for and claim funds yourself. Some law firms offer to search and claim funds for you for a fee, which they may take out of any funds that are returned to you after the claim is filed. However, these firms do not provide any service that you are not able to do yourself via free Internet searches. Thus, in most cases it does not pay to use these services. If you choose to use a fund-finding service, research it online beforehand to ensure that it is legitimate.
- Once you find unclaimed funds, follow the instructions on the state's website to claim them. In most cases, you will have to provide proof of your identity and that you lived at the address associated with the unclaimed funds. If you do not have a utility bill or lease with the associated address, order a copy of your credit report. Your credit report will usually list your present and past addresses.
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