Texas is holding over $10 billion in unclaimed property — and a portion of it may belong to you. The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts manages one of the largest unclaimed property programs in the country. The money comes from dormant bank accounts, forgotten payroll checks, utility deposits, insurance benefits, and safe deposit box contents. The average claim in Texas is between $500 and $1,000.
What Is Unclaimed Property in Texas?
Under Texas law, businesses and financial institutions that hold property belonging to customers who cannot be located are required to report and transfer that property to the Texas Comptroller’s office. There is no deadline to file a claim — your money does not expire, and you can claim it at any time.
Texas unclaimed property can include: dormant bank accounts and savings accounts, uncashed payroll or vendor checks, utility deposits and refunds, life insurance policy proceeds never claimed by beneficiaries, stock dividends and brokerage account balances, and safe deposit box contents. Real estate and motor vehicles are not included.
How to Search for Unclaimed Property in Texas
The official Texas unclaimed property search tool is ClaimItTexas.gov, operated by the Texas Comptroller. The search is completely free. There is no charge to claim property that belongs to you.
Search strategically. Try variations of your name, maiden names if applicable, former business names, and every address where you have lived. You should also search for deceased relatives. The national aggregator MissingMoney.com can supplement your Texas search by checking databases across multiple states.
How to Claim Unclaimed Property in Texas
When you find property, click the ‘Claim’ button next to the listing. Small claims (under $100) typically require a valid government-issued ID. Larger claims require your Social Security number and proof of prior address history.
If you prefer not to submit your Social Security number online, the Comptroller’s office will accept it over the phone at (800) 321-2274 (select option 1, then option 3). Processing time ranges from a few weeks to several months depending on documentation complexity.
Warning: Avoid Unclaimed Property Scams
Some companies offer to help find and claim unclaimed property in exchange for a fee — often 30-40% of the total recovery. These services are unnecessary and expensive. You can find and claim your property for free at ClaimItTexas.gov. The Comptroller’s office never charges a fee for claims.
Related guides: My Texas Benefits | Texas unemployment benefits | Texas sales tax
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I search for unclaimed property in Texas?
Go to ClaimItTexas.gov and enter your name (or a relative’s name) in the search tool. The search is free. Try multiple name variations and all prior addresses.
How much unclaimed property does Texas hold?
Texas holds over $10 billion in unclaimed property as of 2026. The average claim is valued between $500 and $1,000.
Is there a deadline to claim unclaimed property in Texas?
No. Texas holds unclaimed property indefinitely. There is no statute of limitations on filing a claim.
Can I claim unclaimed property belonging to a deceased relative?
Yes. You can claim unclaimed property belonging to a deceased relative if you can provide documentation establishing your relationship and legal right to the property.
Do I need to pay a company to find my unclaimed property in Texas?
No. Searching and claiming unclaimed property through ClaimItTexas.gov is entirely free. Companies that charge 30-40% fees offer a service you can perform yourself at no cost.