FindUnclaimed Money: Claim Money from Bank Accounts and Bank Dividends

May 27, 2024
Discover how to claim money from forgotten bank accounts and unclaimed dividends in Australia. This comprehensive guide walks you through the steps to locate and reclaim your funds, featuring real-life success stories and practical tips. Plus, learn how Voosh Finance's Finance Insight Report can help you manage your finances and prevent future unclaimed money – all for FREE. Start your search today and take control of your financial future!

In a world where every dollar counts, the idea of unclaimed money sitting in bank accounts or as dividends can be tantalising. Whether it’s an old savings account you forgot about or dividends from shares you weren't aware you owned, tracking down and claiming this money can significantly boost your finances. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of locating and claiming unclaimed bank money and dividends in Australia. Plus, we'll introduce you to Voosh Finance's Finance Insight Report – a FREE tool to help you manage your financial life more efficiently.

What is Unclaimed Money?

Unclaimed money refers to funds in financial institutions that have been untouched for a significant period. In Australia, these funds are transferred to the government after a specific time if they remain inactive. This can include:

  • Bank Accounts: Savings or cheque accounts that haven't had any deposits or withdrawals for seven years.
  • Dividends: Payments from shares or investments that haven't been claimed by the shareholder.

Steps to Claim Unclaimed Bank Accounts

1. Identify Unclaimed Accounts

Start by checking if you have any unclaimed bank accounts. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) maintains a database of unclaimed money, which you can search online.

2. Search the ASIC Database

3. Submit a Claim

Once you identify unclaimed money, you can submit a claim:

  • Gather Documents: You’ll need proof of identity and evidence of your connection to the unclaimed account.
  • Complete the Form: Fill out the unclaimed money claim form available on the ASIC website.
  • Submit the Form: Send the completed form along with your documents to the relevant financial institution or ASIC.

How to Claim Unclaimed Dividends

Dividends from shares are another common source of unclaimed money. Here's how to find and claim them:

1. Check Your Shareholdings

Start by reviewing your investment records or any correspondence from companies in which you’ve held shares. Look for any notifications of unpaid dividends.

2. Contact the Share Registry

Most companies use share registries to manage their shareholders and dividends. Contact the share registry to check for unclaimed dividends. Major registries in Australia include:

  • Computershare
  • Link Market Services
  • BoardRoom

Provide your shareholder details and request information about any unclaimed dividends.

3. Claim the Dividends

If you find unclaimed dividends:

  • Verify Your Identity: Provide proof of identity and shareholder details.
  • Complete the Claim Process: Follow the share registry's procedures to claim your dividends, which usually involves completing a form and providing necessary documentation.

Tips for Preventing Unclaimed Money

To avoid losing track of your funds in the future, consider the following tips:

  • Update Your Details: Ensure that all your financial institutions and share registries have your current contact information.
  • Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check all your bank and investment accounts.
  • Use Voosh Finance's Finance Insight Report: Our Finance Insight Report is a FREE tool that helps you keep track of your finances, including bank accounts and investments, ensuring you never miss out on unclaimed money again.

There is around $2 billion in lost shares, bank accounts and life insurance.

Conclusion

Claiming unclaimed money from bank accounts and dividends can provide a pleasant financial surprise. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that any forgotten funds make their way back into your wallet. To prevent future instances of unclaimed money, make use of Voosh Finance's Finance Insight Report, a FREE tool designed to help you stay on top of your financial game.

Call to Action

Don't leave your money languishing in forgotten accounts. Start your search today with the ASIC database and contact relevant share registries for unclaimed dividends. And remember, Voosh Finance's Finance Insight Report is here to help you manage your finances effectively and ensure you’re making the most of your money. Sign up for FREE today and take control of your financial future!

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