$500 ‘Money Match’ checks coming fast — here’s who gets paid from $5 billion pot

A huge $5 billion money pot is being used to send automatic checks up to $500 to Americans under a program called “Money Match.” Officials are asking people to check their mail because some payments are being sent without applying. The program is happening in the state of Pennsylvania, where unclaimed property is being returned to residents.

Unclaimed property means money people forgot about, like old bank accounts, uncashed paychecks, refunds, insurance payouts, and more, as stated by The Sun. Businesses must report unclaimed money to the state, which holds it until the real owner is found. Every US state has unclaimed property programs, and tens of billions of dollars remain unclaimed nationwide.

Money match program sends $500 checks

In Pennsylvania, the Money Match program automatically returns up to $500 to single owners after identity checks. The law was approved by lawmakers and signed in 2024 by Governor Josh Shapiro. The first batch sent in March 2025 included over 7,000 checks worth $1.7 million. Another round in December 2025 sent nearly 100,000 checks totaling more than $22 million.


Altogether, about $50 million in unclaimed property was returned last year. Payments are sent every three months, so more checks are expected soon. Officials say over one in ten residents in Pennsylvania may be owed money. The average claim is more than $1,000, but automatic checks only cover up to $500, as noted by The Sun. “This is YOUR money… and I want to return it to you,” said State Treasurer Stacy Garrity.

No application needed for payment

People no longer need to fill out complicated forms for amounts up to $500. The state sends a letter first telling residents that money is coming. After the letter arrives, the check usually comes within about 45 days. “If you get one of these checks… cash it. The money belongs to you,” said recipient Nina Hard.

If someone is owed more than $500, they must file a claim manually with the Treasury. Examples of unclaimed money include payroll checks, bank accounts, stocks, utility deposits, refunds, safe-deposit box items, and more. Residents can also search the Treasury website to check if they are owed money.

FAQs

Q1. Who will get the $500 Money Match checks?

People in Pennsylvania who have unclaimed money worth $500 or less may receive automatic checks by mail.

Q2. Do I need to apply for the Money Match payment?

No, eligible residents get a letter first and then the check is sent automatically without any application.