Travelers leave behind $960,105 in unclaimed money at TSA checkpoints in FY2018

Unclaimed funds planned for checkpoint training requirements

In fiscal year 2018, travelers left behind $960,105.49 in currency at airport checkpoints nationwide, according to an annual report that tracks the money travelers leave behind. TSA plans to use the unclaimed money to go towards checkpoint training requirements.

TSA makes every effort to reunite passengers with items left at the checkpoint, however there are instances where loose change or other items are left behind and unclaimed. Unclaimed money, typically consisting of loose coins passengers remove from their pockets, is documented and turned into the TSA financial office.  In 2005, Congress gave TSA the authority to use unclaimed funds to provide civil aviation security in accordance with P.L. 108-334.

Historically, funds have been used to pay for checkpoint maintenance, translation of checkpoint signage into different foreign languages, TSA Pre✓, and Adjudication Center system enhancements.

The last five fiscal years* of loose change at airport checkpoints

• FY 2013 – $638,142.64
• FY 2014 – $674,841.06
• FY 2015 – $765,759.15
• FY 2016 – $867,812.39
• FY 2017 – $866,839.56

*October 1 to September 30 each year

Top 10 Airports Where Travelers Leave Change at the Checkpoints

See the full report.

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This is a press release from TSA.