Delaware Department of Finance is currently holding an estimated $600 million+ in unclaimed money that belongs to Delaware residents. If you have ever lived, worked, or done business in Delaware, you may have unclaimed funds waiting for you right now.
This page explains exactly how to search for and claim your unclaimed money in Delaware through official government channels — completely free of charge.
How To Search for Unclaimed Money in Delaware
Step 1: Go to the Official Search Website
Delaware’s unclaimed property program is managed by the Delaware Department of Finance through its Office of Unclaimed Property. The official search website is:
unclaimedproperty.delaware.gov
This is the only official and free way to search for unclaimed property in Delaware. Never pay anyone to search for you.
Step 2: Search Using Your Name
Enter your full legal name on the search page. Try variations including:
- Your current legal name
- Your maiden name or any previous married names
- Common misspellings of your name
- Names of deceased relatives who lived in Delaware
- Your business name, if you have owned or operated a business in Delaware
Step 3: Review Your Results
The search results will show any unclaimed property associated with your name. For each match, you will typically see:
- The name on the account
- The type of property (bank account, insurance, payroll, etc.)
- The company that reported the property
- The approximate value (some states do not show exact amounts)
- The last known address on file
Step 4: File Your Claim
If you find a match, follow the instructions on the Delaware Department of Finance website to file your claim. Most claims in Delaware can be started online. You will need to verify your identity and provide documentation proving you are the rightful owner.
What Documents Do You Need to Claim Unclaimed Money in Delaware?
The exact documentation depends on the type and value of the property, but you should be prepared to provide:
- Government-issued photo ID — driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID
- Proof of Social Security Number — Social Security card, tax return, or W-2 form
- Proof of address — utility bill, bank statement, or tax document showing the address associated with the unclaimed property
- Proof of name change (if applicable) — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
- Proof of ownership — old bank statements, insurance policies, pay stubs, or correspondence from the reporting company
Claiming on Behalf of a Deceased Person
If you are claiming unclaimed money that belonged to a deceased relative, you will typically also need:
- Death certificate
- Proof of your relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate)
- Letters testamentary or letters of administration from the probate court
- A copy of the will or affidavit of heirship
Key Facts About Unclaimed Money in Delaware
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Managing Agency | Delaware Department of Finance |
| Division | Office of Unclaimed Property |
| Estimated Unclaimed Total | $600 million+ |
| Dormancy Period | 5 years (how long before property is turned over to the state) |
| Official Search Website | unclaimedproperty.delaware.gov |
| Phone | (302) 577-8782 |
| Claim Deadline | None — Delaware holds unclaimed property indefinitely |
| Cost to Search and Claim | Free — always |
Common Types of Unclaimed Money in Delaware
Delaware Department of Finance holds many types of unclaimed assets, including:
- Forgotten bank accounts — checking, savings, and CDs from banks that may have closed or merged
- Uncashed checks — payroll, tax refunds, insurance payments, rebates, and dividend checks
- Life insurance proceeds — death benefits from policies where the beneficiary was never notified
- Retirement funds — 401(k) balances and pension benefits left at former employers
- Utility deposits — security deposits from electric, gas, water, and phone companies
- Safe deposit box contents — items from abandoned safe deposit boxes
- Stocks and dividends — shares and dividend payments from companies that merged or changed names
- Court deposits — legal settlements, bail refunds, and court-ordered payments
What You Need to Know About Delaware
Because so many corporations are incorporated in Delaware, the state holds a disproportionately large amount of unclaimed property. Delaware’s escheat revenue is a significant part of the state budget.
How to Protect Yourself from Unclaimed Money Scams in Delaware
Scammers frequently target people searching for unclaimed money. Protect yourself by following these rules:
- Never pay to search. Official government searches are always free. Anyone charging you a fee to search is running a scam or an unnecessary service.
- Never pay upfront fees to claim. You do not need to pay money to receive unclaimed property. If someone asks for an “advance fee,” “processing fee,” or “tax payment” before releasing your funds, it is a scam.
- Be cautious of unsolicited letters and emails. Scammers send official-looking letters claiming you have unclaimed funds. Verify any correspondence directly through the Delaware Department of Finance website.
- Never give your Social Security Number or bank information to anyone who contacts you unsolicited about unclaimed money.
- Use only official .gov websites or the official website linked above to search and claim.
Read our complete guide to unclaimed money scams and how to avoid them.
Other States to Search
Do not stop at Delaware. You should search every state where you have ever lived, worked, attended school, owned property, or done business. Unclaimed property is reported to the state of your last known address — which may not be where you live now.
Search all 50 states | How to claim your money | Avoid scams
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really free to search for unclaimed money in Delaware?
Yes. The official Delaware Department of Finance search is completely free. You never need to pay anyone to search for or claim your unclaimed property.
How long does it take to receive my unclaimed money?
Processing times vary depending on the claim type and documentation required. Simple claims with complete documentation are typically processed within 60-90 days. More complex claims involving estates or large amounts may take longer.
What is the dormancy period in Delaware?
The dormancy period in Delaware is 5 years. This is the length of time an account must be inactive before the holding company is required to turn the property over to the state.
Can I claim unclaimed money for a deceased family member?
Yes. Heirs can claim unclaimed property belonging to a deceased person. You will need to provide documentation proving your identity, the death of the original owner, and your legal right to the property (such as a will, probate documents, or proof of heirship).
Is there a deadline to claim?
No. Delaware holds unclaimed property indefinitely. There is no statute of limitations on claiming your own property.
Contact the Delaware Department of Finance
If you need help with your search or claim, contact the Office of Unclaimed Property directly:
- Phone: (302) 577-8782
- Website: unclaimedproperty.delaware.gov