[r79] Unclaimed Property Could Be Yours (6/7/2010)

Unclaimed property can take the form of inheritances, insurance proceeds, stocks, old bank accounts, unreturned utility deposits or even lost-and-found physical objects, such as passports or gift cards. Whatever it is, the property will most often be some form of money.

"Finding unclaimed property is a free and easy process that everyone should take advantage of," said Rep. Lehman. "It takes just a moment to see if you or someone in your family has property waiting with the state."

Hoosiers who are curious to see if their name is on the list may search for their name at http://www.indianaunclaimed.com/.

According to the Attorney General's office, there are six simple steps involved in being reunited with unclaimed property:

1. Enter your name or the name of a friend or family member in the search field.
2. Place a check mark in the box next to the property you want to claim.
3. Complete the claim form and verify your information by clicking "approve."
4. Print a copy of your completed claim form, sign it and gather all of the required documentation.
5. Drop your completed claim form along with the required documentation in the mail.
6. Allow up to 90 days for the claim to be reviewed. If it is approved, you'll receive your check in the mail.

"In 2009, Hoosiers all over the state were able to claim more than 55,000 properties totaling $42.2 million," said Rep. Lehman. "There's still more than $350 million statewide waiting to be reclaimed."

Constituents without computer access can call 1-866-IN-CLAIM (1-866-462-5246), or call Rep. Lehman's Statehouse office directly for assistance at 317-232-9824. 

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