Ever had that nagging feeling that you misplaced some money? Maybe you received a check you never cashed, forgot about an old account, or left a few dollars hidden away for “safekeeping”—only to completely forget where you put it. The truth is millions of dollars go unclaimed every year simply because people don’t realize where they left their money.
If you’ve ever lost track of cash, there’s a good chance it’s still out there, waiting for you to claim it. Here are seven surprising places where money could be hiding—if you know where to look.
1. Unclaimed Money from the Government
One of the biggest sources of forgotten cash is unclaimed property held by state governments. This includes old paychecks, security deposits, insurance refunds, or even tax refunds that were never delivered. If a business, employer, or agency owes you money but couldn’t reach you, the funds are sent to a state-run database, where they sit until claimed.
Where to check: Visit MissingMoney.com or your state’s unclaimed property website. Just type in your name and see if there’s cash waiting for you.
2. Old Bank Accounts and Forgotten Credit Balances
If you ever opened a savings account as a kid, left a small balance in a checking account, or had a prepaid card you never fully used, there’s a chance your money is still sitting there. Many people also overpay on credit card accounts or utility bills and forget about the small credit balances left behind.
Where to check: Contact old banks where you may have had accounts. If the account has been inactive for a long time, the money may have been transferred to the state’s unclaimed property office.
3. Gift Cards and Store Credits You Never Used
That birthday gift card you tossed in a drawer and forgot about? It’s still money! Billions of dollars in unused gift cards go to waste every year simply because people forget to use them. Many stores also issue store credit for returns, which can be easy to misplace.
Where to check: Dig through your wallet, desk drawers, and old purses for gift cards. Some stores also allow you to check balances online—so even if you only have a partial card number, you might be able to retrieve the balance.
4. Retirement Accounts from Old Jobs
If you’ve ever changed jobs, there’s a chance you left behind an old 401(k) or pension plan without rolling it over. Many employees forget to move their retirement funds when switching companies, leaving thousands of dollars untouched in accounts they no longer access.
Where to check: Use the National Registry of Unclaimed Retirement Benefits (unclaimedretirementbenefits.com) to search for old accounts. You can also contact your previous employers to ask about any retirement funds you might have left behind.
5. Forgotten Paychecks and Class-Action Settlements
If you ever left a job and didn’t collect your final paycheck, it could still be waiting for you. Similarly, class-action lawsuit settlements often go unclaimed because people don’t realize they qualify. If you purchased a product, used a service, or were affected by a lawsuit, there might be a payout with your name on it.
Where to check: Search Unclaimed.org for missing wages. For class-action settlements, visit TopClassActions.com to see if you’re eligible for any pending claims.
6. Hidden Cash in Your Own Home
Sometimes, the money you think is “lost” is actually right under your nose. People often stash cash in old wallets, coat pockets, books, drawers, or even inside furniture and forget about it. If you’ve ever hidden money for safekeeping, you may want to check those secret spots again.
Where to check: Go through old wallets, handbags, storage boxes, and even between couch cushions. If a loved one ever gave you a “secret hiding spot” for cash, check it—many people find money tucked away in places they completely forgot about.
7. Refunds from Old Utility Deposits and Insurance Policies
If you’ve ever set up electricity, gas, cable, or a rental agreement, there’s a good chance you paid a deposit. Many companies require security deposits that are refundable once you move or close the account, but they don’t always remind you to claim them. The same goes for insurance policies—some have refunds or dividends that policyholders never claim.
Where to check: Contact past utility companies, landlords, and insurance providers to ask if you have any unclaimed deposits. You may need proof of residency or policy numbers, but it’s worth checking.
How to Keep Track of Your Money Moving Forward
Finding hidden cash can feel like a lucky break, but the best way to avoid losing money in the future is to stay organized. Here’s how:
- Use a financial tracker – Keep a record of all your bank accounts, investments, and retirement funds.
- Claim your money regularly – Check unclaimed property websites once a year.
- Keep gift cards in one place – Store them in your wallet or a designated spot so you don’t forget to use them.
- Check your pockets before storing clothes – You’d be surprised how many people find cash in old jackets!
There’s a good chance you have money hiding somewhere—you just have to know where to look.
Have you ever found lost money? Where was the most unexpected place you discovered cash? Share your story in the comments below!
Read More:
These 6 Money Wasters Are Keeping You Broke—Here’s How to Cut Them Out
Loaning Money: The Biblical Rules No One Talks About
Latrice is a dedicated professional with a rich background in social work, complemented by an Associate Degree in the field. Her journey has been uniquely shaped by the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mom to her two children, aged 13 and 5. This role has not only been a testament to her commitment to family but has also provided her with invaluable life lessons and insights.
As a mother, Latrice has embraced the opportunity to educate her children on essential life skills, with a special focus on financial literacy, the nuances of life, and the importance of inner peace.