Florida holds over $2 billion in unclaimed funds and property. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to find and claim your missing money in Florida. Could some of it be yours?
Why is There Unclaimed Money in Florida?
Unclaimed property originates from dormant accounts in financial institutions, insurance and utility companies, securities, trust holdings, and more. Forgotten savings accounts, uncashed checks, security deposits, and even contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes contribute to this massive sum. Tangible items like jewelry, coins, and historical artifacts are also frequently discovered. Even traveler’s checks, customer overpayments, and trust distributions can end up as unclaimed property.
What Happens to Unclaimed Funds?
While unclaimed money is deposited into the state school fund to support public education, there’s no statute of limitations on claiming it. You can reclaim your property at any time. Last year, Florida returned $323 million to its rightful owners. With a 1 in 5 chance that you have unclaimed property, it’s worth investigating.
How to Find Unclaimed Money in Florida for Free
Searching for your unclaimed money is free and straightforward. Avoid services that charge fees for this service. Florida offers two primary methods:
1. Official Florida Department of Financial Services Website:
Visit the Florida Department of Financial Services website and utilize their dedicated search tool. Enter your name and explore potential matches. If you find a match, details about the amount (if available), the reporting entity, and the claim process will be provided. You’ll then need to complete a form and submit it along with supporting documentation to verify your identity and ownership.
Tips for Searching:
- Variations of Your Name: Search using different versions of your name, including misspellings, nicknames, maiden names, and even initials. Try searching with “THE” before your last name (e.g., THE SMITHS) if applicable.
- Required Documentation: Be prepared to provide documentation such as your Social Security number, previous addresses, or proof of your connection to the entity reporting the account.
Searching for unclaimed money on a computer
Claiming for Deceased Relatives
You can claim unclaimed property belonging to a deceased relative if you are the next of kin. You’ll need to provide certified copies of official documentation establishing your entitlement, such as a will or court order, along with a certified death certificate of the original owner.
Other Places to Search for Missing Money
Beyond Florida’s state resources, consider exploring other potential sources of unclaimed funds:
- Old Bank Accounts: Check with former banks and financial institutions for forgotten accounts.
- Uncashed Checks: Look for old checks that may have never been cashed.
- Insurance Policies: Review past insurance policies for unclaimed benefits.
- Utility Deposits: Contact previous utility companies for unclaimed security deposits.
Conclusion
Don’t let your money remain unclaimed. With billions of dollars waiting to be reunited with its rightful owners, take advantage of the free resources available to find unclaimed money in Florida. Start your search today and potentially discover forgotten funds that are rightfully yours.
