- 1). Find the most recent statement you have for the savings account. Even if the account statement is several years old, it will give you a starting point and an account number to reference.
- 2). Call the toll-free number listed on the statement to see if the bank is still operating under the same name and with the same branches. Listen to any recorded messages about the status of the bank. Press "0" to speak to an operator if the bank is still operational.
- 3). Explain to the representative that you have an account with the bank, and give him the account number you have. If the account is still active, you can simply come into a local branch to withdraw your money or add additional funds. If the account has gone dormant, it may have been turned over to the unclaimed property department in your state.
- 4). Locate the website run by your state's division of unclaimed property if the account was turned over to it. Every state has its own unclaimed property department, typically run by the treasury department. You can find a link to your state's site by visiting the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (see Reference).
- 5). Click on the search feature of the site, and enter your first and last name. Locate your dormant bank account, and follow the instructions for recovering the money.
- 6). Research the history of your old bank if it is no longer in business. If it was acquired by another bank, contact the new bank, and provide it with your name and account number. Explain that you were a customer of the bank that was acquired, and ask it to look up your account. If it has no record of that account, you will need to go to the unclaimed property department for your state to find your account.
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