The World’s Biggest Lost & Found – Top Countries Holding International Unclaimed Property

international unclaimed property

Billions in Unclaimed Assets - Where is the Money?

Losing even a small amount of money stings—behavioral economists say we feel financial losses twice as much as gains. But stumbling upon forgotten financial assets? That’s an instant jackpot moment!

Which Countries Hold the Most Unclaimed Property?

Governments around the world hold staggering amounts of unclaimed financial assets. As of today, the top five countries with the largest unclaimed property funds are:

  1. United States

  2. United Kingdom

  3. Australia

  4. Canada

  5. New Zealand


Together, these governments are custodians of around $200 billion in unclaimed funds, collected from dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, unclaimed insurance policies, bankruptcy distributions,  and other lost investments to name a few.

Why Do Governments Hold These Funds?

Strict escheatment laws in some countries require banks and financial institutions to transfer dormant accounts after a set period of time. These funds don’t just belong to citizens of those countries—many belong to businesses, charities, and individuals worldwide.

For example:

  • U.S. state governments hold billions in unclaimed funds that belong to Canadians, Australians, Brits and other owners in 230 countries in the world.

  • Many companies unknowingly have dormant corporate accounts containing lost deposits, dividends and uncashed vendor checks.

Could You Have Unclaimed Property?

If you’ve ever, without being aware of local unclaimed property laws:

  • Engaged in business in another country

  • Owned international bank accounts or investments

  • Worked abroad or been employed by foreign companies

Then there’s a chance you could have international unclaimed property waiting for you.

How to Find and Recover Your Unclaimed Funds

Searching through global government databases is complex, but AI-driven technology can simplify the process (related: How AI and Smart Search Tools Help Find Your Forgotten Money). AssetFynd specializes in tracking down unclaimed funds worldwide—let us help you recover what’s rightfully yours!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Due to escheatment laws, financial institutions must transfer unclaimed funds to government treasuries after a certain period of inactivity.

  • Yes, but the process varies. Many U.S. states hold money belonging to Canadians, Australians, and Europeans, but claiming it requires a proper threshold of compliance. This will include proof of ownership and other notarized documents related to the asset produced in the language of the asset custodian.

  • Businesses can reclaim lost assets by manually searching hundreds of official government databases. Alternatively, using Assetfynd’s AI-powered recovery services will simplify the process and increase results.

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How AI and Smart Search Tools Help Find Your Forgotten Money