What is unclaimed money in NSW and who holds it?

Unclaimed money in NSW is cash that could not reach the owner because contact details were wrong or accounts were inactive. Examples include old bank balances, refunds, policy proceeds, and unclaimed dividends. After a dormancy period, organisations transfer these funds to the NSW Government for safekeeping. The state holds the money in trust until the rightful owner claims it. You can search and lodge claims online through the Revenue NSW portal at any time.

How do I claim money and what documents do I need?

Search your name, prior names, and old addresses on the Revenue NSW portal, then select matching records. You will typically need photo ID, proof of past address, and evidence of the source, such as a bank statement, policy letter, invoice, or dividend statement. Upload clear scans and keep reference numbers. If claiming for a business or estate, add ABN or probate documents. Approved claims are paid to your bank account. Processing time depends on case complexity.

What do the proposed NSW dormancy changes mean for investors?

The proposed shift from six to two years means unclaimed dividends and other credits would be transferred to the state sooner. Investors may have less time to correct addresses, cash dividend cheques, or update bank details with registries. We suggest enabling direct credit, checking contact details before reporting dates, and reviewing corporate action notices. Companies may see earlier reductions in customer liability balances. Keep records current to avoid your payments being flagged as unclaimed.

Global Market Insights

January 07: NSW Unclaimed Money Hits $300m as Reforms Speed Payouts

ByDanny Kontos January 7, 2026January 7, 2026

Unclaimed money NSW has reached about $300 million, and new reforms aim to get it back to people faster. The NSW government plans to cut the dormancy period from six years to two, which would speed repayments and clear old balances from company books sooner. For households, this could free up cash in early 2026. For businesses, it changes the timing of liabilities tied to customer credits and unclaimed dividends. We explain what it means and how to claim money quickly.