Unclaimed Military Money & Veteran Benefits
Veterans often have unclaimed severance pay, survivor benefits, and military retirement funds. Thousands of dollars may be waiting for you.
For Service Members: Military severance pay, final paychecks, and TSP thrift savings accounts often go unclaimed when transitioning to civilian life.
6 Types of Unclaimed Military Money
Here's what veterans and service members commonly find:
Military Severance Pay
Unclaimed severance payments from separation, retirement, or discharge.
Survivor Benefits
Unclaimed dependent benefits, survivor retirement pay, or death gratuity payments.
Military Retirement
Deferred military retirement pay or disability compensation that went unclaimed.
DFAS Final Pay Checks
Unclaimed final paychecks from Defense Finance and Accounting Services.
TSP Thrift Savings Plan
Unclaimed Thrift Savings Plan retirement accounts from military service.
Military Bank Deposits
Dormant savings or checking accounts from military duty stations.
How to Find Your Unclaimed Military Money
Check DFAS Directly
Contact DFAS at 1-888-332-7411. They handle all final military pay and can tell you if money is owed. Have your military ID or SSN ready.
Search Your State(s)
Search your state's unclaimed property database for your legal name. Search any state where you received military pay or were stationed.
Check TSP Account
Login to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account at tsp.gov. If you have an unclaimed TSP account, this is likely where your largest amounts are.
Contact VA for Survivor Benefits
If you're a dependent or survivor, contact the VA benefits line at 1-800-827-1000. They can confirm if unclaimed benefits exist.
File Your Claim
Submit proof of military service (DD Form 214), proof of identity, and any documentation of unpaid benefits. Processing typically takes 4–12 weeks.
Important Military Financial Facts
TSP Can Be Large
Military Thrift Savings Plans can have $10K–$100K+ in unclaimed balances. This is often the largest source of unclaimed military money.
DD 214 is Key
Your discharge paperwork (DD Form 214) is required to claim military money. Get a copy from ebenefits.va.gov if needed.
Survivor Benefits Available
Spouses and dependents of deceased service members can claim survivor benefits. These often include substantial unpaid amounts.
No Statute of Limitations
Unclaimed military pay doesn't expire. Money from decades ago can still be claimed. Start with DFAS if unsure.
Official Military Resources
DFAS (Defense Finance & Accounting Services)
Handles all military pay, severance, and final settlements.
1-888-332-7411
dfas.mil
TSP (Thrift Savings Plan)
Military retirement savings accounts. Check for unclaimed balances.
tsp.gov
1-877-968-3778
VA Benefits
Information about survivor benefits and VA unclaimed funds.
1-800-827-1000
va.gov
Get DD 214
Request your discharge documents online.
ebenefits.va.gov
Required for most claims
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find unclaimed military money?▼
Search your state's unclaimed property database using your legal name. Also contact DFAS (Defense Finance and Accounting Services) directly to inquire about any outstanding pay or benefits. The VA also maintains unclaimed benefits databases.
Can I get military money if I was dishonorably discharged?▼
Yes. Generally, you're entitled to any earned pay and benefits regardless of discharge status, unless specifically forfeited by court-martial. Contact DFAS for clarification on your specific situation.
What if a family member died and I am searching for their benefits?▼
Spouses and dependents can search for deceased military members' unclaimed benefits. You'll need to provide death certificate, proof of relationship, and documentation showing your legal right to the funds (will, dependency documents, etc.).
How do I contact DFAS about my military pay?▼
Call DFAS at 1-888-332-7411 (Retired/Annuitant line) or 1-888-332-7411 (Active Duty). Have your military ID number or SSN ready. You can also submit inquiries through your state's unclaimed property office.
What if I served in multiple states?▼
Search all states where you received military pay or had accounts. Military members often have unclaimed funds in multiple states. Also search the state where you retired or settled after service.
Start Your Search Today
Contact DFAS first, then search your state's unclaimed property database.
Find Your State→