[r48] Millions of dollars in unclaimed property; is it yours? (9/20/2012)

STATEHOUSE – Rep. Tim Neese (R-Elkhart) wants constituents to know Indiana has more than $350 million in unclaimed property – and some of it could be yours. Project Reunite was established by the Unclaimed Property Division of the Attorney General’s office to give money or property to the rightful owner. The money belongs to natives or former natives of Indiana and can be claimed by anyone. In fact, over $75,000 was already discovered for Hoosiers during the Unclaimed Property stand at the Indiana State Fair. 

“Ensuring unclaimed money or property returns to the hands of the rightful owner is very important,” said Rep. Neese. “There is $350 million available and Project Reunite provides a variety of ways to ensure individuals receive what is rightfully theirs.”

Unclaimed property includes a number of different items, like old bank accounts, forgotten stocks, utility deposits, safe deposit boxes, insurance proceeds, or even an unclaimed inheritance.

According to the Attorney General’s office one free, easy way to discover unclaimed property can be found at www.IndianaUnclaimed.com. Once on the website, there are six simple steps involved to become reunited with unclaimed property:

• Enter your name or the name of a friend or family member in the search field

• Place a check mark in the box next to the property you want to claim

• Complete the claim form and verify your information by clicking “approve”

• Print a copy of your completed claim form, sign it and gather all of the required documentation

• Drop your completed claim form along with the required documentation in the mail

• Allow our staff up to 90 days to review your claim. If your claim is approved, you’ll receive your check in the mail.

An alternative method to access unclaimed property is a free mobile application. This app is available for both iPhone and Android and can be discovered by going to the App Store and searching ‘IN-Unclaimed’. For individuals without computer access, call 1.866.IN.CLAIM (1.866.462.5246).

“There are tools available to help ensure money is given to the correct people, and Hoosiers should take advantage of these options,” said Rep. Neese. “In this economy, every penny counts and there is money available to the rightful owners which can help out during these difficult times.”

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Neese Millions of dollars in unclaimed property; is it yours (Etruth).doc