Missing Out on $260 or More? Here’s How to Claim Unclaimed Benefits in the U.S.

With everyday costs climbing, a little extra money can go a long way.

But did you know that many Americans may have unclaimed benefits just waiting for them? These funds, from programs like Medicare, tax refunds, Social Security, and unemployment, often go unpaid when contact or banking details aren’t up-to-date.

Let’s explore how you can check if you’re owed any money, update your details, and make sure you get what’s yours.
 

Why These Benefits Often Go Unclaimed

When people move, switch banks, or miss a letter, it’s easy for government payments to get delayed or even lost.

There could be money waiting for you from Medicare, tax refunds, Social Security, or unemployment benefits that just hasn’t been sent because the agency doesn’t have your current information.

“We know a bit of extra money is always welcome in the lead-up to the holidays,” said Government Services Minister Bill Shorten, speaking about unclaimed benefits in Australia.

The same is true here in the U.S.—many people don’t realize they’re eligible for unclaimed funds.
 

How to Find Out if You Have Unclaimed Money

1. Medicare and Medicaid Payments
   Sometimes, Medicare payments aren’t sent if the system has outdated bank details. To check if you have any unclaimed Medicare funds:

   • Sign In to MyMedicare.gov: View your account to see any pending payments.
   • Contact Medicare Support: Call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit Medicare.gov to check if your information is up-to-date.

2. Unclaimed Tax Refunds
   The IRS says many tax refunds are unclaimed each year because people don’t file or update their details. To check:

   • Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” Tool: Visit IRS.gov to check your refund status.
   • Update Your Bank Info: If you think you’re owed a refund, log into your IRS account and make sure your banking details are correct.

3. Unemployment Benefits
   Unemployment payments can also go unclaimed if bank info is out-of-date. To check your unemployment benefits:

   • Visit Your State’s Unemployment Portal: Each state’s unemployment site has an area where you can see your payment history.

4. Social Security Benefits
   Sometimes, Social Security payments are delayed if account details are outdated. To make sure you get what you’re owed:

   • Visit My Social Security: Go to ssa.gov to check your account and make updates.
   • Report Missed Payments: The Social Security Administration can help with any missing funds.

 

Simple Steps to Update Your Details

Updating your information across these programs is simple and can make sure you receive any unclaimed money.

1. Sign In to Each Program’s Website (e.g., MyMedicare.gov, IRS.gov, state unemployment site).
2. Look for “Update Details” or “Edit Information” in the account settings area.
3. Double-Check Your Contact and Bank Info: Make sure your mailing address and bank account details are correct.
4. Save Your Changes: Once updated, any unpaid benefits should reach you within a few business days.

“It only takes about a minute to check whether you’re owed any money,” said Government Services Minister Bill Shorten.

The same applies to U.S. programs—updating your info is quick and easy.
 

Claim What’s Yours

With just a few minutes, you can check if you’re due any unclaimed money, which could make a big difference. To learn more, visit USA.gov Unclaimed Money for a list of unclaimed benefits from various programs.

Take a moment today to update your details, and see if you’re owed any funds. It’s quick, easy, and could be money well worth claiming!

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