Would You Like a $250 Government Check? Learn Why This Payment Exists and How You Could Qualify

Many people in New York are opening their mailboxes to find a $250 check sent directly by the state.

These payments come from unclaimed funds tied to forgotten or inactive accounts.

The state has simplified the process to return lost money without complex paperwork.

In 2025 alone, the New York State Comptroller’s Office returned more than $435 million in unclaimed funds.

Among these payouts, many residents are receiving the standard $250 check by mail—no application required.

This initiative helps people recover money left behind in banks, insurance policies, or inheritances.

Unclaimed Funds: Where Does the Money Come From?

Unclaimed funds often come from accounts forgotten over time, such as:

Bank deposits

Insurance policies

Uncashed checks

Court settlements

When institutions can’t locate the rightful owner, the money is turned over to the state.

In 2025, Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli reported returning more than $2 million daily in unclaimed funds.

A new law now allows amounts of $250 or less to be returned automatically, without paperwork.

Banks, courts, and insurers must report inactive accounts, ensuring residents eventually recover their property.

Thanks to this reform, more New Yorkers are receiving unclaimed funds checks directly in the mail.

How to Know If You’re Eligible

Unclaimed funds trigger $250 checks in New York sent directly – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Even if you didn’t receive the automatic $250 check, you may still have money waiting.

Here’s how to check for free:

Visit the official New York Comptroller’s website.

Enter your last name or business name.

Narrow the search with your first name, city, or ZIP code.

Select “Claim” if you find a match.

There are no fees, deadlines, or limits on claiming unclaimed funds.
You can also search on behalf of family members or friends.

How to Claim Unclaimed Funds Online

If your name appears in the database:

File a claim directly on the portal.

Submit required documentation for verification.

Once approved, you’ll receive details about the account and the exact amount owed.

The system updates daily, so it’s worth checking regularly.

For many families, these unclaimed funds represent unexpected income that can make a real difference.

What Officials Are Saying

Checks in New York – PHOTO: Canva

“It’s your money, and we’re giving it back!” stated the Comptroller’s Office.

In addition to mailing automatic checks, the office also:

Hosts community outreach events

Sends letters directly to identified owners

What’s Next

The Comptroller’s Office plans to expand outreach campaigns so more residents learn how to claim unclaimed funds.

With the database open and constantly updated, thousands of Hispanic families in New York may discover they too qualify for their own $250 check.