Treasurer Beck announces $17.6 million in new unclaimed property, Senator Chipman working to contact owners

AUGUSTA – Senator Ben Chipman, D-Portland, announced the addition of more than $17.6 million to Maine’s Unclaimed Property Fund, and Mainers are being urged to check whether any of that cash belongs to them.

“Picking up a few extra dollars here and there can really make a difference,” said Senator Chipman. “Extra money could help with a co-pay for a prescription or to put dinner on the table. Checking the unclaimed property list is a quick and easy way to see if you’re owed a few dollars here or there. I highly encourage all Portlanders to see if they have money waiting for them.”

Unclaimed property is money owed to Maine people by third parties, such as former employers, banks or utility companies. Organizations are required to give unclaimed property to the State Treasurer after a certain period, after which the owner of the unclaimed property can retrieve it from the state.

Unclaimed property could be from a forgotten bank account, an overpaid bill or uncollected wages. This money could be unclaimed because of a change in name, addresses or bank account. Year after year, people are surprised to find they might have money waiting for them at the Treasurer’s Office. Particularly during these uncertain times, Mainers are strongly encouraged to look and see if they are on the list.

People can search the Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property list by going to maineunclaimedproperty.gov. Those who find their name, or the name of a current or past businesses on the list, can claim the property immediately online — for free. Anyone with questions can call the Treasurer’s office toll free in Maine at 888-283-2808 or locally at (207) 624-7470, or email up.generalinquire@maine.gov.

The Office of the Treasurer receives new properties throughout the year. The state Treasury is currently holding more than $291 million of Mainers’ unclaimed property.

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