Residents of Virginia Are Leaving Millions Unclaimed: Here is How to Find Your Money

But that is not the only way to put money back in your pocket in 2026. With winter heating bills rising and tax season approaching, there are specific state programs designed to help seniors, veterans, and homeowners that often go unused.

Here is your guide to finding the money that belongs to you in the Commonwealth.

1. The "VaMoneySearch" (It’s Easier Than You Think)

Virginia has streamlined the process of finding lost assets more than almost any other state. They use a free, secure website called VaMoneySearch.gov.

Unlike some states that require notarized forms for every claim, Virginia has simplified the process for smaller amounts. If you find property in your name, you can often upload your ID and file the claim entirely from your smartphone.

How to Check:

• Go to the Official Site: Visit VaMoneySearch.gov (be careful to avoid "finder" sites that charge fees—the official state site is free).
• Search Broadly: Enter your name, but also check the names of deceased parents or grandparents. Life insurance policies are the most common "large dollar" items found in the database.
• Check "Reciprocal" States: If you worked in D.C. or Maryland before moving to Virginia, you need to check their databases too, as money doesn't always "follow" you across state lines.

2. The Crisis Assistance Program (Open Now)

If you are struggling with heating bills this January, you might be eligible for immediate help. While the "Fuel Assistance" application window closed in November, the Crisis Assistance program is currently active.

This program runs from January 1 through March 15. It is designed for households facing an emergency—like a disconnect notice or a lack of heating fuel (propane/oil).

• What it covers: Payment of primary heat utility bills, security deposits, or repair/replacement of heating equipment.
• How to apply: You can apply online via CommonHelp.virginia.gov or by calling the Enterprise Customer Service Center.

3. The 100% Disabled Veteran Exemption (Real Estate & Car)

Virginia offers one of the most generous tax benefits in the nation for veterans, yet many eligible families fail to file the paperwork.

If you are a veteran with a 100% service-connected, permanent, and total disability rating from the VA, you are exempt from paying Real Estate Tax on your primary residence. This is not a deferral; it is a total exemption. This can save you $3,000 to $6,000+ per year depending on where you live.

Newer Perk: As of recently, this benefit also extends to one motor vehicle (owned and used by the veteran). That means no personal property tax ("Car Tax") on your primary vehicle—a massive saving in counties like Fairfax, Loudoun, or Prince William where the car tax is notoriously high.

• Surviving Spouses: This benefit often transfers to the surviving spouse if they do not remarry.
• Action: Contact your local Commissioner of the Revenue to file. It is not automatic; you must apply.

4. Senior Real Estate Tax Relief

If you are age 65+ (or permanently disabled) and not a veteran, you still might qualify for relief.

Many Virginia localities (including Richmond, Henrico, and Virginia Beach) have recently increased their income limits for the Real Estate Tax Relief Program.

• The Benefit: It freezes or reduces your real estate tax bill.
• The Catch: Unlike the state-wide veteran rule, this is managed by your county or city.
• Deadline: Most localities have an application deadline between April 1 and May 1. Do not wait until your tax bill arrives to ask about this.

Action Plan: 3 Steps to Take Today

1. Search the Database: Go to VaMoneySearch.gov right now. It takes 60 seconds.
2. Review Your "Car Tax" Bill: If you are a 100% disabled vet, ensure you aren't paying taxes on your primary vehicle.
3. Check Energy Assistance: If you have a disconnect notice, apply for Crisis Assistance via CommonHelp before March 15.