Claiming
Finding Unclaimed Money for a Deceased Relative
Updated July 25, 2026
When someone passes away, any unclaimed property in their name — a forgotten bank account, an uncashed check, a life-insurance benefit, a security deposit — doesn't vanish. It stays with the state, and their heirs or estate can claim it. Families miss this constantly, because the money is often filed under an old address the relatives never knew about.
Search your relative's name — including maiden and former names — across state records. Below is how to claim what you find as an heir or executor.
Search under every name and place they lived
Property is reported to the state of the person's last known address, so check every state they lived or worked in. Search their full name, maiden name, nicknames, and any business names. Fuzzy matching helps when records have typos or abbreviations. Life insurance is a common find — you can also use the free NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator (see unclaimed life insurance).
Claiming as an heir or executor
If you're the executor, administrator, or heir, you can file a claim on the estate's behalf. Exactly what's required varies by state, but you'll typically need:
- A certified death certificate
- Proof of your authority — a will, letters testamentary, or letters of administration
- Proof of your relationship or your role in the estate
- Your own ID, and sometimes the deceased's Social Security number
If the estate is already closed
You can usually still claim — states have processes for property discovered after probate ends, and small estates may qualify for a simplified affidavit. If several heirs share the estate, the state will ask how the funds should be divided. When in doubt, the state's unclaimed-property office can walk you through it, for free.
Watch for heir-finder fees
"Heir finders" or "estate researchers" sometimes contact families offering to recover a relative's money for a large cut — often 10–40%. You can do the same search and claim yourself for free. Read is it really free? before signing anything.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out if a deceased person has unclaimed property?
Search their name — including maiden and former names — in the unclaimed-property records of every state they lived in. It's free. Life insurance is a common find; you can also use the NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator.
Can I claim a deceased parent's unclaimed money?
Yes, if you're an heir, executor, or administrator. You'll generally need a death certificate, proof of your authority or relationship, and your ID. Requirements vary by state.
What if my relative's estate is already settled?
You can typically still claim property found later. States have processes for this, and small estates may use a simplified affidavit. Contact the state's unclaimed-property office.
Ready to check for money in your name?
Search your name free across millions of records, or browse by state.