How to celebrate Unclaimed Property Day February 1

Every year on February 1, people across North America recognize Unclaimed Property Day. It’s a day to empower people with knowledge of unclaimed property programs, reunite owners with forgotten assets, and celebrate the role that organizations like BC Unclaimed play in strengthening communities across the continent.

This annual acknowledgment was created by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) as an awareness campaign, encouraging people to search for unclaimed assets and “reunite with your money.” While the concept originated in the US, we hold the same belief they do here at the British Columbia Unclaimed Property Society: that unclaimed property belongs to and should be reunited with its rightful owner no matter how long it’s been left untouched.

Why you should celebrate Unclaimed Property Day

It’s your money, after all

Unclaimed Property Day is a reminder that if there is unclaimed money that still belongs to you, you may be able to find it and claim it. What are you waiting for? Check now!

It encourages financial awareness

Checking for unclaimed money helps people take stock of their financial lives — a good habit at the start of the year, and as you head into tax season. Many people discover assets they forgot they had or never knew about, including family inheritances or old account balances.

It supports communities

BC Unclaimed supports community causes through the Vancouver Foundation, helping address poverty, homelessness, refugee settlement, and other important social issues across the province.

It honours BC leadership

British Columbia was a pioneer in Canada’s unclaimed property landscape. Its Unclaimed Property Act was among the first in the country, and its approach — through an independent not-for-profit model that gives back to the communities it serves — is unique in North America. We can be proud of the way unclaimed funds are protected, returned, and benefit causes in our province.

Get involved: It’s easy!

Getting involved is simple. There’s no cost to you, and unlike some “days,” there is no commitment to fundraise, run a marathon, or make a lifestyle change! All you need to do is:

• Search for your name in the BC Unclaimed database — you could be owed money you don’t know about.

• Spread the word by telling friends and family and posting or sharing our posts on social media — use hashtags like #UnclaimedPropertyDay (we’re on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!) to help others discover unclaimed assets.

• Support community impact by recognizing the charitable work enabled by unclaimed funds.

• Look into whether you could or should submit unclaimed funds on behalf of an organization to get them off the books and support BC communities.

When you’re done, give yourself a pat on the back for recognizing a one-of-a-kind day. Happy Unclaimed Property Day from all of us at BC Unclaimed.