Is the Evergreen State Holding Your Missing Money? A Guide to WA Unclaimed Property
You should check the state database. You might be surprised to learn that the State of Washington could be sitting on cash or other assets that belong to you. This "forgotten money" is called Unclaimed Property, and it’s a large pool of funds waiting to be returned to its rightful owners.
If you’ve ever lived, worked, or even just had a bank account here in Washington, take a few minutes to see if you have some unexpected money coming your way. And if you run a local business, we have a quick compliance refresher for you.
So, What Exactly IS Unclaimed Property?
Think of Unclaimed Property as your money that simply lost its way home. It’s cash or assets that a bank, company, or even a utility had in their possession, but they lost touch with the owner for a long time (usually three years).
The good news is that the Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR) acts like a super-safe lost-and-found. They hold onto these funds indefinitely, keeping them secure until you or your family shows up to claim them. It’s a smart program designed to keep businesses from just pocketing money they can't return.
Here’s What Usually Gets Lost:
Uncashed Checks: This is a big one. Think old paychecks, insurance refunds, or dividend payments.
Old Bank Accounts: Savings or checking accounts that haven't seen any activity.
Stocks and Investments: Shares or bonds where the company lost your address.
Safe Deposit Items: Valuables found in safe deposit boxes that were abandoned.
Deposits and Credits: Refunds from your cable company or a credit balance on a patient account.
Time to Search! How You Get Your Money Back
The whole point of the DOR program is to reunite you with your cash—and let me say this clearly: it's a free service. Never pay a fee to search.
Step 1: Hit the Search Button (It’s Fast)
Head straight to the official Washington Unclaimed Property website and search their database. Search your name, your spouse's name, or even your old business name. It’s smart to check for deceased relatives, too. If you've lived in other states, also check the national site, MissingMoney.com.
Step 2: File Your Simple Claim
If you find a match, the system will walk you through filing a claim. You’ll need a few documents just to prove you are who you say you are:
Fill out and sign a claim form.
Provide a copy of your photo ID.
Send in proof that connects you to the property (like an old utility bill from the address on file, or a death certificate if you're an heir).
The Best Part? No Expiration Date!
There is no time limit to file a claim in Washington State. The DOR holds that property until the rightful owner is found, no matter how long it takes.
A Quick Heads-Up for WA Businesses: When to Report!
If you run a business or organization (what the state calls a "holder"), you have a legal duty to report and send any unclaimed money over to the state. Compliance is key here.
1. How Long Until it's "Abandoned"?
Most property is considered legally abandoned after three years of no contact. The exception: Uncashed payroll checks, which only take one year.
2. Last Chance Call (Due Diligence)
Before you hand the money over to the state, you have to try to find the owner. If the property is worth $75 or more, send a notice via mail between 180 and 60 days before the final reporting deadline. It’s your last attempt to reconnect.
3. The Annual Filing Due Dates
Your business needs to file an annual report and deliver the property to the DOR based on your industry:
Holder TypeAnnual Filing Due DateMost Businesses (Banks, Retailers, Utilities, etc.)October 31st of each yearInsurance CompaniesApril 30th of each year
Just remember: late reporting can lead to penalties, so mark your calendar.
What should you do next? Go search the Washington Unclaimed Property database right now. It could be the easiest money you ever find.
Sources
All information regarding the Washington Unclaimed Property program, deadlines, and legal requirements is sourced from the Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR) Unclaimed Property Division and the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 63.30.