Submit a Lost and Found Inquiry
Inquire with the local lost and found office about lost items or vehicles.
How to proceed
- 1
Contact the lost and found office at the location where the item was found
Search online via the Lost and Found portal or in person.
- 2
Identify an object
A detailed description of the item, along with the date and location of the loss.
- 3
Pick up the item
Upon presentation of proof of ownership and payment of a pickup fee.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
1 day
Official: max. 1 day
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Inquiry submitted to the wrong lost and found office (e.g., train or taxi instead of city)
- • Loss report not reimbursed
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
People who have lost an item and would like to look for it at the lost and found office.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. 1 day
Success rate
approx. 30.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Inquiry submitted to the wrong lost and found office (e.g., train or taxi instead of city)
- •Loss report not reimbursed
Common reasons for rejection
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Questions & Answers
When am I allowed to keep a lost item?▼
If the owner cannot be identified after 6 months, the honest finder acquires ownership (Section 973 of the German Civil Code). A finder’s fee may be claimed.