Officials say forgotten accounts, uncashed checks, and other assets could be claimed by searching the state’s database online.
SAN ANTONIO — If you’re looking for a little extra cash this holiday season, the money may already be yours — and you might not even realize it.
The Texas Comptroller’s Office says billions of dollars in unclaimed property are waiting to be claimed statewide, including a significant amount in Bexar County.
According to the comptroller’s office, more than $491 million in unclaimed property is currently held for people in Bexar County alone.
Unclaimed property includes financial assets that have gone inactive for at least a year. Common examples include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, utility deposits, insurance proceeds, and mineral royalties.
When the state is unable to locate the rightful owner, it is legally required to hold the property until that person — or a legal heir — comes forward to claim it.
To see if you or a family member has unclaimed funds, you can search the state’s database at claimittexas.gov by entering a name. Officials say it may also be worth checking the names of deceased relatives.
If property is found, claims can be submitted directly through the website. For additional assistance, the comptroller’s office can be reached at 1-800-321-2274.
Officials encourage Texans to check the database regularly, noting that new property is added each year.