Unclaimed federal money
Not all unclaimed money sits with the states. The federal government and private retirement plans hold their own — old 401(k)s, savings bonds, tax refunds, and more — each with its own official, free search. Below is a guide to every major federal source and exactly where to look.
We’re an independent guide, not a government agency. Every search below is free through the official government site, and you never need to pay a “finder” or “tracer” to claim your own money. If you’re starting from scratch, begin with how to find unclaimed money in your name for free.
Lost 401(k)s & pensions
Old workplace retirement money tracked by the Department of Labor, the PBGC, and the new Retirement Savings Lost & Found.
Savings bonds
Matured or uncashed U.S. Treasury savings bonds — searchable free through Treasury Hunt and TreasuryDirect.
IRS tax refunds
Undelivered or uncashed federal refund checks, and how to track a missing refund with the IRS's own tool.
FDIC & NCUA funds
Insured deposits left behind at failed banks and credit unions — searchable through the FDIC and NCUA.
HUD / FHA refunds
Mortgage-insurance refunds owed to some former FHA borrowers — free to check, despite the 'tracer' letters.
Life insurance & benefits
Lost life insurance policies and annuities via the NAIC locator, plus VA and Social Security benefits.