5 Ways to Find Forgotten Cash

Listen up, "change-under-the-cushion" diggers! If you need a few bucks, think beyond the couch. Liquidate the junk in your closet at a yard sale or find out if you have cash sitting in a forgotten account. Here's how to come up with more cash.

1. Search the Database
Could you be a missing heir? From forgotten bank accounts and rent deposits to safe deposit box contents, state accounts are flush with unclaimed properties.

  • Plus: How to locate unclaimed money and property
  • Also: Don't let Uncle Sam have your refund!

    2. Sitting on Expired Savings Bonds?
    About 2 million people own expired savings bonds and apparently don't know it. Are you one of them? Check out your safe deposit box or desk drawers and cash in your expired savings bonds.

    3. Get That Collectible Appraised
    An appraiser can tell you how much that antique vase or a limited-edition doll is worth.

    4. Hold a Garage Sale
    Here are some pointers on how to make extra cash without ever leaving your driveway.

  • Plus: What to do with leftovers

    5. Click to Sell
    If that unwanted CD collection didn't sell in the driveway, an online auction can attract more potential buyers.

  • Plus: Seller checklist for online auctions

    Bankrate.com is the Web's leading aggregator of information on financial products including mortgages, credit cards, new and used automobile loans, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, checking and ATM fees, home equity loans and online banking fees. Visit Bankrate.com to get the tools and information that can help you make the best financial decisions.

  • Source: Money & Work

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