How we test
A rubric, not a vibe
Every app in the 2026 ranking is scored 1–10 on five weighted criteria. Weights are public so you can disagree with them.
| Criterion | Weight | What we look for |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery | 25% | Speed to first matches, coverage, proof flags, deadlines |
| Filing | 25% | Does it prepare the claim or just link out? |
| Cost | 20% | Can you see matches before you pay? Payout cut? |
| Transparency | 15% | Operator, privacy, “not a law firm,” administrator pays |
| Ease | 15% | Web vs app, bank link, time-to-value |
Why I'm Owed Money wins this rubric
It is the only product that is excellent on all five at once: a two-minute web quiz (discovery + ease), claim prep (filing), a free check (cost), and the right disclaimers (transparency). Catch is close on cost and discovery if you accept a bank link. Subscription apps lose cost before they start.
What we do not score
App Store rating volume. Native-app polish for its own sake. Bundled cash advances. Those measure a different product.
Updates
We revisit scores when pricing, filing, or disclosure changes. The date on each page is the last editorial pass.