New York state has billions of dollars in unclaimed funds, and you might be the rightful owner of some of that money. If you’ve ever wondered whether any of this unclaimed cash could belong to you, there’s a simple way to check.
The process is quick, and with just a few steps, you could find out if you’re entitled to any of these funds. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to search for unclaimed money and claim what’s rightfully yours.
How to Find Out if the State Owes You Money
The New York State Comptroller’s Office provides a special database to help people search for unclaimed funds. The USA Today Network also has a similar database. All you need to do is type in your name to see if there are any unclaimed funds in your name.
These funds could come from old bank accounts, forgotten insurance policies, or other sources you might not have thought of.
The amounts of unclaimed money can vary. Some amounts are as small as $3, but there are also large sums, including a nearly $8 million estate waiting to be claimed. Whether it’s a small amount or a large sum, it’s worth checking to see if you have any unclaimed funds.
How to Claim Your Unclaimed Funds
Claiming your unclaimed money is simple and free of charge. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit the Comptroller’s Website: The easiest way to check is by visiting the official New York State Comptroller’s website. You can search for your name, and if any funds match, you can begin the process of claiming them.
- Send a Claim by Mail: If you prefer, you can mail your claim to: New York State Comptroller’s Office of Unclaimed Funds
110 State St., Albany, NY 12236 - Call for Help: If you need assistance, you can call the Comptroller’s Office at (800) 221-9311 for support.
The best part is that the process is completely free. You don’t need to pay any fees to get your money back.
Interesting Facts About Unclaimed Funds in New York
Here are some key facts about unclaimed funds in New York:
- More than 10 million searches are conducted each year to find unclaimed money.
- Around 45% of unclaimed funds come from old bank accounts.
- The Comptroller’s Office processes over $1.5 million in claims daily.
- The largest unclaimed amount is a nearly $8 million estate.
- 70% of claims are for less than $100.
Why You Should Check for Unclaimed Funds
Even if you think you don’t have any unclaimed funds, it’s still worth checking. You may have small amounts waiting for you, or even a large sum! If you find any unclaimed money in your name, it’s yours to claim. Don’t miss out on what’s rightfully yours.
For more information or to start the claim process, visit the Comptroller’s Office website today.
FAQs
How do I check if I have unclaimed money in New York?
You can search the official New York State Comptroller’s website or use the USA Today Network’s database to see if there are any unclaimed funds in your name.
Is there a cost to claim unclaimed money?
No, claiming unclaimed funds is completely free.
How can I claim my unclaimed money?
You can claim your money by visiting the Comptroller’s website, mailing a claim, or calling their office for assistance.
What happens if I don’t claim my money?
If you don’t claim your unclaimed money, it may eventually go into the state’s general fund to support public programs and services.
What types of accounts contribute to unclaimed funds?
Unclaimed funds mostly come from old bank accounts but can also come from insurance policies, utility deposits, and more.
