Automatic Unclaimed Money Payments: States That Send a Check

The state compares its unclaimed-property records with identity and address data it trusts. Illinois uses data the state already collects; Washington and Massachusetts verify owners with LexisNexis records. When a name and current address match with enough confidence, the state mails a letter, and then a check.

There is usually nothing to fill in. You cash the check, or, in some states, confirm a few details online using the claim ID in the letter.

These programs are confirmed by each state's own announcements. Limits and rules change, so check the official site linked from your state's page before relying on them.

• New York — Expedited Payment Program (since January 2025). The Office of the State Comptroller matches verified owners, mails a letter, then a check. It started at $250 and now pays up to $5,000. Estate claims are excluded.
• Illinois — Enhanced Money Match. The State Treasurer sends up to $5,000 automatically when a name and mailing address match state records. It covers cash owed to a single person, not joint accounts, stocks, bonds, or safe-deposit box contents.
• Pennsylvania — PA Money Match (first checks in 2025). Treasury returns single-owner property worth up to $500. A letter comes first; the check follows about 45 days later.
• Washington — Money Match (since spring 2023, RCW 63.30.530). The Department of Revenue verifies the owner and address, then mails a check for property that meets its criteria.
• Massachusetts — Claim Mass Money (announced October 2026). The State Treasury contacts residents directly and approves eligible claims without claim forms or documents; you finish online with the claim ID in your letter.

Most unclaimed property doesn't qualify. You will still need to file a claim yourself when:

• the amount is above the state's automatic limit;
• the property has more than one owner, such as a joint account;
• it's stock, bonds, or the contents of a safe-deposit box;
• you're claiming for a deceased relative or an estate;
• the state can't confirm your current address, or the money is held by a state you no longer live in.

A real letter comes from the state agency that holds the money and never asks for a fee. If you're unsure, don't use any link or phone number in the letter, email, or text. Go to your state's official unclaimed-property site yourself and look up the claim. Anyone who charges a percentage to get money the state would send you for free is a finder, not the state. See how to avoid unclaimed-money scams.

Automatic programs reach only some owners in a handful of states. Money from a state you used to live in, larger amounts, and anything owed to a family member who has died still has to be found and claimed. Search unclaimed money by name here, then follow how to claim unclaimed property.