Finding Lost Money

Do you like finding money? Have you ever lost money only to find out that you had just misplaced it? It seems every year when I bring out the winter coats, there are several dollars tucked away in the pockets. Not a bad bonus! I even recall a time looking through an old book only to find a $20 bookmark. I wouldn’t be surprised if you went on a loose change witch hunt you’d be able to find several dollars worth hidden around the house. Sometimes that money could be lost forever, but usually, what comes around goes around. Just like the Seinfeld episode where Jerry can lose $20 only to find a $20 bill in his jacket. It seems like there are people out there that are just that lucky.

I think everyone would be in agreement that if they were offered money, they would take it, especially if it belongs to them. So for that, there is Missing Money. I knew sites like this existed, but I never took the time to take a look. Similar to Missing Money is also the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators website. I did a search for myself (and consequently family members with my last name) and my wife, but no such luck. Who knows, I’ll be sure to check the site at least annually.

Some types of unclaimed money include:

• Long lost bank accounts
• Stocks, mutual funds, bonds, and dividend payments
• Uncashed checks and unpaid wages
• Insurance policies, CD’s, trust funds
• Utility deposits, escrow accounts

I wasn’t able to follow through the process, but it seems to be very simple. Fill out some forms and get the cash! I hope someone will be successful in claiming what is owed to them. Now there are no more excuses to lag behind on your emergency fund or make extra high interest debt payments if you find some unclaimed money or property. For now, I’ll have to settle with combing through jacket pockets, looking under car seats and under the seat cushions for that long lost money.

Do you know someone that found missing money or have you found some yourself? I would be interested in hearing your story! Don’t forget to tell you friends!

Stupidly Yours,

Matt