What Is Unclaimed Property?
Unclaimed property in Iowa includes financial assets such as dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts, and safe deposit box contents that have been forgotten or abandoned. When businesses lose contact with the rightful owner for a certain period, they are required to turn these funds over to the state for safekeeping. Iowa is currently safeguarding $460 million in unclaimed property, waiting for rightful owners like you to claim it.
How Does Property Become Unclaimed?
Assets become unclaimed due to several reasons, such as:
- Relocation: Forgetting to update an address when moving.
- Lost Documents: Misplacing account information or important paperwork.
- Unaware Beneficiaries: Not knowing about inheritances or insurance payouts.
- Business Closures: Refunds or payments not reaching customers due to failed communication.
These funds remain secure with Iowa’s unclaimed property division until the rightful owners or heirs claim them.
Types of Unclaimed Property in Iowa
Here are some of the most common types of unclaimed property you might find in Iowa’s database:
- Bank Accounts: Dormant checking or savings accounts with no activity.
- Uncashed Checks: Payroll checks, vendor payments, or rebates that were never deposited.
- Insurance Payouts: Life insurance benefits or policy refunds left unclaimed.
- Utility Refunds: Overpayments or deposits from utility accounts.
- Safe Deposit Boxes: Valuables such as jewelry, coins, or documents left in banks.
How to Search for Unclaimed Property in Iowa
Iowa provides a simple and free process to help you locate and claim your unclaimed funds. Follow these steps to get started:
- Visit Iowa’s Unclaimed Property Website: Use Forgotten Loot to access the official state database.
- Enter Your Details: Search by your name, business name, or even a deceased relative’s name.
- Review the Listings: Check the search results to identify property that belongs to you.
- File Your Claim: Submit proof of identity (e.g., ID, address history) and ownership to Iowa’s unclaimed property office.
The state will process your claim, and you’ll receive your funds or assets after verification.
Why Search for Unclaimed Property in Iowa?

Iowa’s unclaimed property division adds new assets to its database regularly, so even if you’ve searched before, it’s worth checking again. These funds are rightfully yours, and claiming them is easy, free, and secure.
Fun Facts About Iowa
- Iowa is known as the “Corn State”, producing the largest amount of corn in the U.S.
- The Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville attracts thousands of visitors every year.
- Iowa’s capital, Des Moines, is a hub for insurance companies and ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S.
- It’s home to the famous Iowa State Fair, which features unique foods and thrilling attractions.
Link back to: Visit Iowa’s State Tourism Page
Tips for Finding Success
- Use Variations of Your Name: Include nicknames, maiden names, or middle initials.
- Search for Relatives: Look for funds belonging to deceased family members.
- Check Other States: If you’ve lived elsewhere, unclaimed property might be waiting there too.
- Search Regularly: New funds are added frequently, so check back often.
Get Started with Forgotten Loot
With over $460 million in unclaimed property waiting in Iowa, now is the perfect time to start your search. Download Forgotten Loot today for step-by-step guidance on accessing Iowa’s resources and exploring opportunities across all 50 states.
Don’t let your money go unclaimed—your treasure could be waiting!