Question 1

Is it free to search?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every register we link to is run by a government department or regulator and is free to search, and you can generally make a claim yourself directly with the authority. We never charge you anything. Private recovery services may charge a fee or percentage, so check the official authority first.

Question 2

Which register should I search first?

Accepted Answer

Start with your state or territory register, then work through the national ones: MoneySmart for bank accounts and shares, the ATO for lost super, Fair Work for unpaid wages and AFSA for bankruptcy money. Money can sit in more than one place, so it's worth checking all of them.

Question 3

What information do I need to search?

Accepted Answer

Usually just your name. Results improve a lot if you also search previous names, common misspellings, and check results against your previous addresses and date of birth.

Question 4

Nothing came up - should I check again later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Registers are updated regularly as institutions transfer unclaimed money across, so a search that finds nothing today may find something in six or twelve months. It costs nothing to check again.

Question 5

What ID do I need to claim?

Accepted Answer

Most registers ask for photo identification (driver licence or passport), proof of your current address, and evidence linking you to the money - such as an old bank statement, payslip, tenancy agreement or share certificate. Requirements vary by register and are listed on each claim form.

Question 6

Can I search for a deceased relative?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Executors, administrators and next of kin can search and claim on behalf of an estate. You will generally need the death certificate, a grant of probate or letters of administration, and proof of your own identity.

Question 7

Can someone claim on my behalf?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with your written authority - typically a signed authority form or power of attorney. Be cautious about anyone who offers to do this for a fee: the process is free and you can do it yourself.

Question 8

How long does it take to get my money?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the register and how complete your claim is. Simple claims are often paid within two to six weeks. Estate claims and anything requiring extra evidence can take several months.

Question 9

Is there a deadline to claim?

Accepted Answer

For most Australian unclaimed money registers there is no time limit - the money is held until the rightful owner claims it. Some specific schemes do have deadlines, which are stated on the relevant government page.

Question 10

Are you a government agency?

Accepted Answer

No. Find Lost Money Australia is an independent, free information service. We are not affiliated with any government department and we do not hold, transfer or manage any money. We help you work out which official registers to search, using a free personalised Search Plan and guides, and link you to them directly.

Question 11

Is it safe to use these services?

Accepted Answer

The registers we link to are official government and regulator websites. We only link to addresses on government domains. Always check the address bar shows the official domain before entering personal details, and never send your bank details by email.

Question 12

Do you see my search results?

Accepted Answer

No. When you click a card you go directly to the government website. We don't receive, store or see anything you type there.

Question 13

Do you charge a fee if I find money?

Accepted Answer

No. We take no commission and charge no fees of any kind.

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