SE Texas Times

Texas is currently holding approximately $9 billion in unclaimed property, including cash and other valuables, awaiting their rightful owners. According to the Texas Comptroller, about one in four residents of Texas have unclaimed property. This can include items such as dividend checks, payroll checks, stocks, bonds, utility deposits, insurance proceeds, dormant bank accounts, and abandoned safe deposit box contents.

The Texas Comptroller’s office receives these unclaimed properties from financial institutions, businesses, and government entities that are legally required to report personal property considered abandoned or unclaimed. The Comptroller's office acts solely as a custodian of these properties until they are claimed by their owners. Importantly, Texas does not assume legal ownership of the unclaimed property; therefore, there is no deadline for filing a claim.

Efforts have been made over the years by the Texas Comptroller to raise awareness about the billions in unclaimed property held by the state. In fiscal year 2024 alone, a record $422 million was paid out in claims. Since the program's inception, over $4 billion worth of unclaimed property has been returned to its rightful owners.

To facilitate the claiming process, the Comptroller’s office has updated its website with features designed to help residents check for any unclaimed property they might own. Residents are encouraged to visit Texas Unclaimed Property online or call 800-321-2274 (CASH) for assistance.

State Representative Todd Hunter emphasizes that his offices are available for inquiries related to this matter or any other issues concerning a Texas state agency. He represents Aransas County and part of Nueces County and can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.state.tx.us or via phone at 512-463-0672.

For further information or assistance with constituent services, Rep. Hunter invites residents to reach out to his Capitol Office at 512-463-0672 or District Office at 361-949-4603.