Can I search for a bank account that was opened with my Social Security number?

Question

My grandparents started a bank account for me when I was just born. They used my social security number, but I'm not sure which bank they started it at. They've since passed away and there was no mention of it in the will. It's been 20 years since it was supposively opened and I was wondering if there was a way to search using my social security number to find out if they ever made the account, closed the account before they passed away, or find out which bank it is at.

Answer 1

It depends on whether or not they made any transactions to the account in the 20 years.  If no transactions, then it is likely the account was closed for inactivity and the property turned over to your state as abandoned property (or escheatment).  You can contact your state's treasurer's office for more info about that.  Otherwise, I would contact the bank where they did their banking.  Another option is to try with their tax returns to see if a 1099 was ever sent to them.

Or, if they opened an account for another grandchild, maybe ask them?

Answer 2

Just start going to the different banks and ask if they can check your social for an account, or you could call the bank close to where your grandparents lived, or the branch where they banked

Answer 3

This will be tough.  Best bet: start with the bank(s) at which they did their own banking.