Check three places: the old employer's plan administrator, your state's unclaimed-property office, and PBGC if the plan was terminated. A small balance may have been moved into an account in your name without a letter you received.
Open the official searchUnclaimed.org — find your state's office. Free. We take no cut and ask for nothing.
When someone leaves a job with a small 401(k), the plan can sometimes move it to an IRA in their name or send a cheque. If the address is out of date, the money may be passed to the state.
Once found, check tax rules before you cash out. A direct rollover into an IRA usually avoids a bill.
Checked against the official page on 2 October 2026. Rules and screens change, so follow the agency's own instructions.
No. A pension pays a benefit at retirement; a 401(k) is an account balance.
Yes. After a plan cannot reach you, states may hold the balance.
The old employer, the plan's recordkeeper or the Department of Labor's retirement office.
Open refunds and settlements, with the official link next to each. Free, no finder fee, one click to leave.
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