Unclaimed Money in West Virginia
The West Virginia State Auditor's office manages unclaimed property from dormant bank accounts, mineral rights payments, and other forgotten financial assets.
Total Held
$190 million
in unclaimed property
Average Claim
$560
per successful claim
Processing Time
8-12 weeks
after claim submission
How to Search & Claim in West Virginia
Search the Database
Visit the official West Virginia unclaimed property database using the link below. Enter your full legal name — try variations including maiden names and previous names.
Identify Your Property
Review all results carefully. Each listing shows the type of property, original holder, and approximate value. Select any records that match your information.
Submit Your Claim
File your claim directly through the West Virginia portal. You will need to provide proof of identity (government-issued ID) and proof of address (utility bill or bank statement).
Receive Your Money
After West Virginia verifies your claim, you will receive your property by check or direct deposit. Processing typically takes — check the state portal for current timelines.
Types of Unclaimed Property in West Virginia
West Virginia holds many different types of unclaimed property. Common categories include:
West Virginia Unclaimed Property — FAQs
What is the West Virginia unclaimed property program?
The West Virginia unclaimed property program is administered by the state government and requires businesses to turn over dormant financial assets to the state after a set period of inactivity (typically 3–5 years). The West Virginia State Auditor's office manages unclaimed property from dormant bank accounts, mineral rights payments, and other forgotten financial assets. The program holds $190 million in unclaimed property on behalf of residents.
How do I search for unclaimed money in West Virginia?
To search for unclaimed money in West Virginia, visit the official state portal at https://www.wvsao.gov/UnclaimedProperty. Enter your full legal name — try all variations including middle names, maiden names, and nicknames. Also search using the names of deceased relatives. The search is completely free.
How long does West Virginia take to process claims?
West Virginia typically processes unclaimed property claims in 8-12 weeks. Processing time can vary depending on the complexity of your claim, the type of property, and the volume of claims being processed. You can check claim status through the West Virginia unclaimed property portal.
Is there a deadline to claim property in West Virginia?
No. West Virginia, like all US states, holds unclaimed property indefinitely on behalf of the owner. There is no deadline or statute of limitations for claiming your own unclaimed property. However, you should search and claim as soon as possible to avoid any complications.
Can I claim on behalf of a deceased relative in West Virginia?
Yes. You can file a claim for unclaimed property belonging to a deceased relative in West Virginia. You will typically need to provide a certified death certificate, proof of your relationship to the deceased, and documentation of your legal right to the property (such as a will, letters testamentary, or letters of administration from the probate court).