One state is sitting on $10 billion in unclaimed cash — here’s how to check if you are owed money

Texas residents may get money back from the government before the end of the year if they claim it. The state of Texas is holding more than $10 billion in unclaimed property right now. This money belongs to people and businesses, not the government. The unclaimed cash may include old bank accounts and checks that were never cashed.

The money can help people during the holidays when spending is usually higher. Texas is not the only state doing this type of program. Pennsylvania recently returned $22 million to residents through its unclaimed property program, as stated by The Mirror US. The average check sent in Pennsylvania was about $1,000. New York also returned unclaimed money, with some checks going up to $250.

Texas unclaimed money

“Every dollar in our Unclaimed Property program belongs to a Texan, not the government,” said Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock. “This time of year, especially, even a small amount can make a meaningful difference for families,” Hancock said. “I encourage every household in the Houston area to take a moment to search — it’s simple, it’s secure and it just might put a little extra money back in your pocket for the holidays,” Hancock added, as reported by The Mirror US.


Unclaimed property includes forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, utility deposits, insurance money, and mineral royalties. It can also include money or items left in a safety deposit box. Property is considered unclaimed if it has been left unused for one year or more. Texans can check for unclaimed property by visiting ClaimItTexas.gov.

How to claim money

People can search using their own name or a family member’s name on the website. If unclaimed property is found, the website explains the steps to claim it. The search tool is free and safe for all Texas residents. “With many Texans feeling the pinch of holiday spending, this is an opportunity to recover money that may have been forgotten years ago,” Hancock said. If no unclaimed property is found, people can file a negative report on the website.

Different cities in Texas are owed different amounts from the $10 billion total. About $185.3 million in unclaimed property belongs to El Paso County, as stated by KFOX14. Around $125 million is owed to residents in the Rio Grande Valley. Austin residents can claim about $622 million in unclaimed money.The Houston area has the largest share, with about $2 billion available to claim, as stated by The Mirror US.

FAQs

Q1. How can Texas residents check if they have unclaimed money?

Texas residents can search their name for free on ClaimItTexas.gov to see if the state is holding money for them.

Q2. What types of money are counted as unclaimed property in Texas?

Unclaimed property can include old bank accounts, uncashed checks, deposits, insurance payouts, or items from safety deposit boxes.