DES MOINES, IA (02/07/2012)(readMedia)-- State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald is looking to reunite owners this Valentine's Day with their lost and forgotten cherished treasures. The Great Iowa Treasure Hunt database contains names of more than one million accounts from individuals all over the state that have lost track of some money or treasure. "In addition to money, we have an assortment of sentimental items waiting to be reclaimed. These include safe deposit box contents such as pictures of soldiers' wives they had with them while overseas, engagement rings, lockets, cards and love letters," Fitzgerald said. "Some of these items may have been tokens of affection given from one of your family members on a past Valentine's Day."
Treasurer Fitzgerald encourages all Iowans to check the website for forgotten treasure. "Check regularly, check often and check for your friends and family," Fitzgerald advises. New property is uploaded every year, so even if you have claimed property in the past, there is a chance your name could reappear. "We want to return people's money," he stated. "That's our number one priority."
The Great Iowa Treasure Hunt program has returned over $143 million to more than 359,000 individuals since Fitzgerald started it in 1983. Companies and financial institutions in Iowa and from across the nation report millions of dollars in unclaimed property to the State Treasurer each year. Common examples of unclaimed property include money in forgotten savings/checking accounts, uncashed insurance benefit and payroll checks, IRA funds, lost stock and dividends, abandoned safe deposit box contents, gift cards, utility refunds or deposits.
Treasure seekers are encouraged to visit www.greatiowatreasurehunt.com and check to see if they have unclaimed assets waiting for them. Individuals may also send an email to foundit@iowa.gov. For those who prefer corresponding by mail, please write to State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald, Great Iowa Treasure Hunt, Lucas State Office Building, Des Moines, IA 50319. Please make sure to provide current name, previous names and addresses.
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