Step‑by‑Step Guide: How to Find Unclaimed Assets in Texas

If you have ever changed jobs, moved homes, switched banks, or closed a business in Texas, there is a chance you may have unclaimed money or property waiting for you. This can include things like forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, or deposits you never got back.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains how unclaimed property in Texas typically works and walks you through step‑by‑step how to search and file a claim through official state channels. HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government agency and does not process claims, but this article can help you understand what to expect and how to get started with the right Texas offices.

What Are “Unclaimed Assets” in Texas?

In Texas, unclaimed assets are usually called unclaimed property. It is money or property that belongs to you but has been inactive or abandoned for a certain period of time, so the holder (like a bank or company) turns it over to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Common examples include:

• Bank accounts (checking, savings, CDs) with no activity
• Uncashed checks, including paychecks, refunds, or dividends
• Utility deposits and rental deposits
• Insurance proceeds or policy benefits
• Stocks, bonds, and mutual funds
• Contents of safe deposit boxes (after being sold, the cash value may be listed)
• Gift cards or credit balances in some situations

These funds do not usually disappear. Instead, they are typically held by the state until the rightful owner or heir files a claim.

Who Can Search for Unclaimed Property in Texas?

In many cases, anyone can search the Texas unclaimed property database for:

• Your own name (current or previous)
• A business you own or owned
• A deceased relative’s name, if you may be an heir
• A family member’s name, if you are helping them search

You may be able to claim property if you are:

• The original owner listed
• A legal heir of a deceased owner
• An executor or administrator of an estate
• A business owner or authorized representative for a company

The exact documentation you need depends on your relationship to the original owner and the type and amount of property.

Step‑by‑Step: How to Find Unclaimed Assets in Texas

The main place Texans usually start is the Texas Comptroller’s unclaimed property search tool on the official state website. The process typically looks like this:

Step 1: Gather Basic Information

Before you search, it helps to have:

• Full legal name (and any former names, including maiden names)
• Business names you own/owned (including “doing business as” or DBA names)
• Current and past addresses in Texas and other states
• Last four digits of your Social Security number (sometimes requested later in the claim process)

You can still search with only a name, but more details will make it easier to confirm if a record belongs to you.

Step 2: Go to the Official Texas Unclaimed Property Search

To search for unclaimed property in Texas, you would typically:

1. Visit the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts official website.
2. Look for the Unclaimed Property or Claim It Texas section.
3. Open the search tool to begin your search.

If you are unsure you are on the right site, you can verify by:

• Checking that the web address clearly indicates an official Texas state government site.
• Calling the Comptroller’s official phone number listed on the state’s main website to confirm.

Step 3: Search by Name

Use the search fields provided and:

1. Enter your last name and first name.
2. Try variations, such as:
   • With and without middle initial
   • Former names (including maiden names)
   • Common misspellings of your name
3. If you are searching for a business, use the business name instead of a person’s name.

The results typically show:

• Owner name
• Last known address or city
• Name of the company or organization that reported the property
• Type of property (for example, “wages,” “refund,” “dividend”)
• Approximate dollar range or value category

Step 4: Identify Which Records Might Be Yours

Go through the search results and look for:

• Matching names and addresses where you lived or worked
• Companies you recognize (past employers, banks, utility companies)
• Any entries that look like they could reasonably be yours

You can usually select multiple claims at once if they clearly belong to you.

If you see an entry for a deceased relative, do not select it yet unless you are prepared to provide proof of your relationship and possibly probate or estate documents.

Step 5: Start a Claim Through the Official Portal

Once you identify possible matches, the portal usually lets you:

1. Select each item you believe belongs to you.
2. Click something like “File a Claim” or “Begin Claim”.
3. Enter contact details such as:
   • Current mailing address
   • Phone number
   • Email address

You may need to create a user account on the official portal if you plan to track your claim online.

HowToGetAssistance.org cannot file claims on your behalf. All claim submissions must go through the official Texas Comptroller channels.

What Documents Do You Need to Claim Unclaimed Property in Texas?

The exact documents vary, but you are usually asked to provide proof of identity and proof of ownership or relationship.

Common Documents for Individual Claims

You may be asked for:

• Government‑issued photo ID
  • Texas driver’s license
  • State ID card
  • U.S. passport
• Proof of Social Security number
  • Social Security card
  • Tax document or pay stub that clearly shows your SSN
• Proof of address (past or present, depending on the claim)
  • Utility bill
  • Bank statement
  • Lease, mortgage, or property tax record
• Documentation linking you to the reporting company, if requested
  • Old bank statement or policy document
  • Pay stub from the employer
  • Insurance policy page

Additional Documents for Special Situations

If you are claiming on behalf of someone else or a business, you may also need:

• For a deceased owner:
  • Death certificate
  • Will, probate order, or letters testamentary/administration
  • Proof you are an heir (such as birth or marriage certificates)
• For a business:
  • Business formation documents
  • Proof you are an authorized officer or owner
  • Tax ID number (EIN) documents
• For a trust:
  • Trust agreement or certification of trust
  • Proof you are a trustee or beneficiary

The Texas Comptroller’s office typically lists acceptable documents on its official website or on the claim form itself.

Quick Reference: Typical Documents by Claim Type

*Exact requirements can vary. Always follow the instructions from the official Texas Comptroller’s office for your specific claim.

How to Submit Your Claim in Texas

After you start a claim online, you usually have to submit documentation to prove you are the rightful owner. The Texas Comptroller typically offers one or more of these methods:

1. Online Upload

• Many people can upload scanned copies or clear photos of their documents through the official online system.
• Files need to be legible and include all pages requested.

2. Mail

If online upload is not available or not preferred, the Comptroller’s office may allow you to:

• Print your claim form from the portal.
• Sign it and attach copies (not originals) of your required documents.
• Mail the packet to the address listed on the official form.

3. In‑Person or Notarized Documents

For some claims, especially larger amounts or more complex cases (such as estates or businesses), the Comptroller may require:

• A notarized signature on the claim form
• Additional legal documents
• In rare cases, in‑person verification through an appropriate Texas office

Instructions for your specific claim usually appear on:

• The claim confirmation page in the portal
• The printable claim form
• Any follow‑up letters or emails from the Comptroller’s office

What Happens After You File a Claim?

Once your claim and documents are submitted, the timeline can vary. Common steps include:

1. Initial Review

   • Staff at the Texas Comptroller’s office check that your form is complete and your documents meet the requirements.

2. Verification

   • They compare the information you provided with the original property record.
   • They may contact the original company or bank in some cases.

3. Request for More Information (if needed)

   • If something is missing, unclear, or inconsistent, the office may send a request for additional documentation.

4. Approval and Payment

   • If your claim is approved, payment is typically issued:
     • By check mailed to your address
     • In some cases, via direct deposit, if that option is offered and chosen

5. Tracking Status

   • Many claimants can check the status of their claim through the official portal or by calling the Texas Comptroller’s unclaimed property phone line.

Processing time can vary based on claim complexity, volume of requests, and whether more information is needed.

Common Reasons Claims Are Delayed or Denied

People sometimes experience delays or denials for reasons such as:

• Incomplete documentation (missing pages, unclear copies, expired ID)
• Name mismatch (for example, different spelling or missing middle name)
• Address mismatch without proof of residence at the old address
• No proof of relationship for heirs or estate claims
• Unsigned or not notarized form when notarization is required
• Submitting to a non‑official website instead of the Texas Comptroller

If your claim is denied, the Comptroller’s office generally provides a reason. Often, you may correct the issue (for example, by supplying additional documents) and resubmit or appeal depending on their instructions.

How Appeals or Reviews Usually Work

If you disagree with a decision on your unclaimed property claim:

1. Read the denial or request letter carefully.

   • Note what was missing or why the claim was not approved.

2. Contact the Texas Comptroller’s unclaimed property division.

   • Use the official phone number or mailing address provided by the agency.
   • Ask what additional steps are available in your specific case.

3. Submit additional documentation or clarification.

   • Provide any requested legal or identification documents.
   • Make sure your copies are legible and clearly labeled.

Formal appeal processes can differ, especially for larger or more complex claims. The Comptroller’s office is the best source for the exact appeal process available in your case.

What If You Don’t Qualify or Can’t Prove Ownership?

Sometimes you may find a possible match but cannot meet the documentation requirements, or the record clearly belongs to someone with a similar name, not you. In that situation:

• The Comptroller’s office usually cannot release the funds without proper proof.
• You may want to search under more name variations or confirm with relatives.
• For deceased relatives, you might consider consulting with an attorney experienced in probate or estate matters, especially if the amount is substantial.

If you are not able to claim the Texas property, you can still:

• Check for unclaimed property in other states where you or relatives have lived or worked.
• Review your current accounts and policies to avoid new unclaimed property in the future.

Tips to Avoid Unclaimed Property Scams

Because unclaimed property involves money, there are scams that try to take advantage of people searching for funds. To protect yourself:

• Use only official Texas government channels.
  • Look for clear identification as the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
• Be cautious of third‑party “finders” or “locators.”
  • Some are legitimate but charge a fee for something you can typically do yourself for free via the state.
• Avoid giving out full Social Security numbers or banking information to any site that does not clearly show it is an official Texas state site.
• Watch for high‑pressure tactics.
  • Scammers may say you must act immediately or pay a large upfront fee.
• Verify anything that sounds suspicious by contacting the Texas Comptroller’s unclaimed property office using the contact details listed on the primary state website, not from an unsolicited email or message.

How to Tell You’re on an Official Texas Channel

To make sure you are dealing with legitimate state offices:

• Confirm that the website clearly identifies the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
• Look for contact information that matches what you find on the broader official Texas state website or printed state materials.
• If you are unsure, you can:
  • Call the state’s main information line and ask to be transferred to the unclaimed property division.
  • Ask local government offices or legal aid organizations how to reach the Texas Comptroller.

Additional Resources and Alternatives

If you need help with the process or have trouble accessing the online system, you might consider:

• Calling the Texas Comptroller’s unclaimed property office directly for guidance on forms and documentation.
• Visiting a public library for free computer and printer access, plus staff who may help you navigate to the official website.
• Contacting legal aid organizations or local bar association referral services if your claim involves complex estate or business questions.
• Dialing 211 in many parts of Texas to ask about free or low‑cost legal or financial counseling resources in your area.

These resources are separate from HowToGetAssistance.org and usually work directly with or alongside official state systems.

By following the steps above—searching through the Texas Comptroller’s official unclaimed property service, gathering the right documents, and submitting a complete claim—you can typically handle the entire process yourself through the state’s official channels.