Season 2 Episode 43: The Money Nobody Knows They Have: Why Your Family Might Have Hidden Cash Waiting to Be Found
Jun 02, 2025
Episode Summary: What if you or someone you love has money sitting out there, completely forgotten and legally yours? In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey shares a real-life story of discovering hidden funds and breaks down what unclaimed property is, why it happens, and how you can check for it. This isn’t a get-rich-quick gimmick. It’s a reminder that thoughtful planning includes knowing where all your assets are - even the ones you’ve forgotten about.
Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance for your needs.
Essential Question: What if there’s money waiting for you or your loved ones that you don’t even know exists?
Episode Highlights:
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A $100 surprise found for Honey’s hairdresser and $400 more for her father
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The dormancy period explained: what it is and why it matters
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Examples of unclaimed property: life insurance, bank accounts, utility deposits, capital credits, and more
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The $70+ billion sitting with states and how to search for your share
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Why even estates with a will may miss this money if it’s not documented
Advice from Host: Include a search for unclaimed property in your annual planning process. It only takes a few minutes and could result in money you didn’t know was missing. Help your executor or family by documenting all financial accounts and making sure beneficiaries are clearly named. This reduces the chances that your hard-earned assets wind up in unclaimed property.
Conclusion: Unclaimed property is more common than people realize, and it affects both the living and the deceased. With just a little effort and awareness, you can ensure that what’s yours stays with you or reaches your loved ones. Organization isn’t about perfection it’s about peace of mind.
Resources Shared:
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MissingMoney.com
Search multiple states for unclaimed property in one place.
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NAUPA (National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators)
Find official unclaimed property sites for every U.S. state.
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Texas Comptroller – Unclaimed Property
Search for and claim unclaimed property in the state of Texas.
Connect with Thoughtful Planning Hosts, Santiago & Honey:
Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit
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