Have you ever wondered if there’s money out there with your name on it, just waiting to be claimed? In Arkansas, there very well could be! Arkansas State Auditor Dennis Milligan recently announced a significant find – over $115,000 in unclaimed funds discovered specifically for nonprofit organizations across the state. This exciting news highlights the ongoing efforts of the Arkansas State Treasury to reunite Arkansans with their lost or forgotten assets through the state’s unclaimed property program, known as the Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt.
What is the Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt?
The Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt is the official unclaimed property program administered by the Arkansas State Auditor’s office. This program acts as a central hub for funds and assets that have been turned over to the state because the rightful owners could not be located. Think of it as a lost and found for money and valuables! These unclaimed funds can originate from a variety of sources, often from everyday financial activities.
Types of Unclaimed Money in Arkansas
You might be surprised at the types of assets that end up classified as unclaimed money. It’s not just forgotten cash under the mattress! Unclaimed property can include:
- Dormant Bank Accounts: Checking and savings accounts that have been inactive for a certain period.
- Uncashed Checks: Paychecks, vendor payments, or refunds that were never deposited.
- Utility Deposits: Refundable deposits from utility companies after you move.
- Insurance Proceeds: Life insurance payouts or other insurance settlements.
- Stocks and Mutual Funds: Shares or dividends from investments.
- Safe Deposit Box Contents: Tangible items left in abandoned safe deposit boxes.
Essentially, if a company or financial institution owes you money and cannot locate you, those funds eventually get transferred to the state’s unclaimed property program. Auditor Milligan’s office then takes on the responsibility of finding the rightful owners and returning the assets.
How to Search for Your Unclaimed Money in Arkansas
The process to check for unclaimed money in Arkansas is simple and free! The Arkansas State Auditor’s office has made it easy for individuals and organizations to search the database online through their website: www.claimitar.gov.
Here’s how you can start your own Arkansas Treasure Hunt:
- Visit ClaimItAR.gov: Go to the official website for the Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt.
- Search the Database: Use the search tool to enter your name, business name, or non-profit organization name. You can also try different variations of your name or previous addresses.
- Review the Results: If the search finds potential matches, review the details carefully.
- File a Claim: If you believe you’ve found your unclaimed money, follow the instructions on the website to file a claim. The website will guide you through the necessary steps and documentation.
Auditor Milligan emphasizes the importance of checking the database, stating, “I am required by state law to try to return these unclaimed funds to their rightful owners.” Since taking office in January 2023, his office has successfully returned over $52 million to Arkansans!
Don’t leave money on the table that could be yours. Take a few minutes today to search for unclaimed money in Arkansas at www.claimitar.gov. You might be surprised at what you find!
