Why every nonprofit in BC should check for unclaimed money

Nonprofits play a vital role in British Columbia. They deliver programs, provide support, and help build stronger communities. For many non-profits, every dollar of funding counts, but many are unaware of money held in their name currently sitting unclaimed.

As we mark National Nonprofit Day on August 17, BC Unclaimed is encouraging nonprofit leaders, staff, and supporters to take a few minutes to search for unclaimed money that could benefit their organization.

Who we are

BC Unclaimed is the independent, non-profit organization designated by the Province of British Columbia to manage the province’s unclaimed property program. We act as a caretaker for unclaimed money that is transferred to us by companies, financial institutions, and government bodies that have been unable to locate the rightful owners.

Our work is guided by the Unclaimed Property Act and Unclaimed Property Regulation. Some organizations are required to transfer unclaimed money to BC Unclaimed under the law, while others may choose to do so voluntarily.

We maintain a free, public, searchable list of unclaimed money. That includes funds that may belong to nonprofit organizations. These funds remain available for claim at any time, and our team works actively to help reunite them with their rightful owners.

Yes, nonprofits can have unclaimed money

Unclaimed money is not just for individuals. Nonprofits can also lose track of funds for many reasons, including staffing or address changes. Here are some common sources of unclaimed money for non-profits:

• dormant credit union accounts

• insurance payments, claims, or premium refunds

• uncashed payments or returned deposits 

• proceeds from a court case

Whether your organization serves a neighbourhood or the entire province, reclaiming unclaimed money helps ensure those funds return to the mission they were meant to support.

How to search for unclaimed money

BC Unclaimed offers a free, public database that makes it simple to check for unclaimed money.

To search:

1. Visit bcunclaimed.ca/search

2. Enter your organization’s legal or operating name

3. If there is a match, follow the steps to submit in inquiry and learn how to claim the funds.

Some claims may require supporting documents, but many are straightforward. Our team is available to provide guidance and support throughout the process.

What happens when funds are not claimed

We ensure funds are always available to be claimed. When money is not needed for future claims, it helps create lasting social impact through our partnership with the Vancouver Foundation. These funds support programs that strengthen communities across British Columbia. To date, more than $80 million has been granted to support poverty reduction, mental health, environmental protection, vital community programs, and other initiatives across the province.

By reuniting funds with the organizations they belong to or putting them to work in BC communities when claims are not possible, BC Unclaimed ensures that every dollar continues to serve a meaningful purpose.

Search today & support your mission

Every dollar makes a difference. Whether you are part of a small community group or a large charitable foundation, it is worth checking to see if your organization has unclaimed money waiting.

Search now at bcunclaimed.ca/search

This National Nonprofit Day, help bring money back to the missions it was meant to support.