Where To Hide Money In A House: A Pro’s Guide

Hiding money at home? It’s a practice as old as money itself. Whether you’re safeguarding emergency funds, squirreling away savings from prying eyes, or simply prefer the tangible feel of cash, the key is discretion and ingenuity. While the stereotypical mattress isn’t going to cut it, several surprisingly effective hiding spots exist right under your roof. Think unexpected locations, blending in with the surroundings, and a bit of DIY creativity. The best places to hide money in a house involve a combination of security, accessibility (for you!), and concealment. Here’s a breakdown:

• Inside Faux Food Containers: Empty and thoroughly clean a jar of peanut butter, a soup can, or a bag of frozen vegetables. Carefully stash your cash inside, reseal it convincingly, and place it back amongst its brethren in the pantry or freezer. This leverages the “nobody looks in there” principle.
• Behind Wall Plates: Electrical outlet covers, light switch plates, and cable TV access panels are often overlooked. Just remember to kill the power at the breaker before tinkering near electrical outlets! Use a small, thin envelope or pouch to contain the cash, and be sure it doesn’t interfere with the safe replacement of the plate.
• Book Safes (DIY or Purchased): Carve out the inside of an old, thick book. Or, for a quicker solution, buy a commercially available book safe that blends seamlessly onto a bookshelf. The key is to choose a book that doesn’t stand out – one that looks well-worn and ordinary.
• Fake Air Vents: These are particularly effective if you can access them from another room. You can buy readily made fake air vents online, or you could adapt an existing one.
• Inside Unused Electronics: Old radios, VCRs (if you still have one!), or even broken game consoles can provide surprisingly spacious hiding places. Ensure the device is unplugged and cleaned out first, and that your stash is secured to prevent rattling.
• Behind Picture Frames: Remove the backing of a large picture frame and create a discreet pouch to hold your money. Ensure the frame is securely reattached to the wall to avoid suspicion. Consider using a picture frame that’s slightly larger or thicker than average to accommodate the extra bulk.
• Underneath Drawers: Many drawers have a small space underneath them that is often forgotten. This is especially useful in dressers or kitchen cabinets. Be careful not to use too much money to avoid obstructing drawer functionality.
• In Sealed PVC Pipes: Cap off a short length of PVC pipe and store it in your garage, basement, or attic. Camouflage it amongst other pipes, or partially bury it in loose soil.
• Inside a Plant Pot (Well-Sealed): Place your money in a waterproof container (like a zip-top bag or a small plastic container with a lid) and bury it in the soil of a potted plant. Ensure the container is well-sealed to protect the money from moisture and pests.
• Behind a Loose Floorboard: This is a classic, but still effective if done correctly. Choose a floorboard in a low-traffic area and ensure it’s not too difficult to lift and replace without damaging it.
• Inside Curtain Rod Ends: Many curtain rods have hollow ends that can be unscrewed. Roll your money tightly and insert it into the end of the rod.
• Diversion Safe Products: There are several every day items that double as safes. Things like shaving cream, hair brushes, soda cans, and many more.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Remember to think creatively, consider your home’s layout, and prioritize security and discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it legal to hide money in my house?

Yes, it’s perfectly legal to hide your own money within your home. The legality only comes into question if the money is obtained illegally, intended for illegal activities, or if you fail to report it to tax authorities if required. Transparency and legality go hand in hand.

2. What’s the best way to protect my hidden money from moisture and pests?

The key is waterproof and airtight containers. Zip-top bags are a decent start, but consider using vacuum-sealed bags, plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, or even waterproof pouches designed for outdoor use. Desiccant packets (the little silica gel packets you find in some packaging) can also help absorb moisture.

3. How do I avoid forgetting where I hid my money?

This is a common problem! Document your hiding places in a secure and discreet location, such as a password-protected document on your computer or a coded entry in a journal stored elsewhere. Consider using a simple system of clues or mnemonic devices to help you remember.

4. What’s the worst place to hide money in a house?

Avoid obvious places like under the mattress, in a sock drawer, or behind a commonly used appliance. These are the first places burglars will look. Also, avoid hiding large sums of money in a single location. Diversification is key, even when it comes to hiding spots.

5. Should I tell anyone where I’ve hidden my money?

Generally, no. The fewer people who know, the better. However, it’s wise to inform a trusted family member or executor of your will about the location of your hidden money in case of an emergency or your incapacitation. Ensure they understand the importance of discretion.

6. How can I make my hiding places more secure against burglars?

Layer your security. Combine inconspicuous hiding places with other security measures like a home security system, motion-sensor lights, and reinforced doors and windows. A barking dog can also be a deterrent. Make your home a less appealing target than others.

7. Is it better to hide cash or convert it to something else?

This depends on your goals. Hiding cash offers immediate access but risks loss or theft. Converting it to precious metals or other valuables might offer better long-term security, but it can be less liquid. Consider your individual needs and risk tolerance.

8. How do I hide money from my spouse during a divorce?

This is a legally and ethically complex issue. While you might be tempted, hiding assets during a divorce is generally illegal and can have serious consequences. It’s always best to consult with a qualified attorney to understand your rights and obligations.

9. Can I hide money in my house if I’m receiving government benefits?

This can be tricky. Many government benefit programs have asset limits. Hiding money to avoid these limits could be considered fraud. Consult with a social worker or benefits specialist to understand the rules and regulations in your specific situation.

10. How much money is too much to hide in a house?

There’s no magic number, but consider the risks. The larger the sum, the greater the potential loss from theft, fire, or natural disaster. Diversify your assets by keeping some money in a bank account, investing in stocks or bonds, and only keeping a reasonable amount of cash at home.

11. What about hiding money in a safe?

Safes can be a good option, but they’re not foolproof. Burglars can break into them or even steal the entire safe. Choose a high-quality safe that’s securely bolted to the floor or wall, and conceal it as much as possible. Also, don’t advertise its presence!

12. Are there any products specifically designed for hiding money in a home?

Yes, there are numerous “diversion safes” and hidden compartments available. These are designed to look like everyday objects, such as books, clocks, or electrical outlets, but they contain a hidden space for storing valuables. Do your research to find a product that suits your needs and blends in with your home decor.