Peoria, IL… State Representative David Leitch (R-Peoria) wants to reunite constituents with their lost or abandoned property through a cooperative effort with State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias’ Office.
The Illinois State Treasurer is responsible for reuniting Illinois residents with lost funds and assets commonly known as “unclaimed property.” As has occurred in past years, Rep. David Leitch is assisting in this effort by notifying constituents in his district of their unclaimed property.
“Common forms of unclaimed property include uncashed payroll checks and lost, abandoned or forgotten checking and savings accounts, dividends and safe deposit box contents,” says Leitch.
By law, banks and businesses are required to turn over unclaimed property to the Treasurer’s Office if they are unable to locate the rightful owner after five years. The Treasurer then holds the assets indefinitely until they are claimed by the rightful owner or heirs.
The Treasurer’s Office has returned over $550 million in unclaimed property to Illinois residents since July 1999. Nearly $82 million was returned last year alone.
Inquiries can be made by mail to the State Treasurer’s Office. You can also search for your name on the state’s database on the Treasurer's website.