State ‘treasure hunt’ looks for owners of unclaimed money

DES MOINES — State Treasurer Roby Smith is spreading the word about National Unclaimed Property Day, celebrated every Feb. 1.

"This is a great opportunity to raise awareness and encourage Iowans to search for their name, the names of those they know and their favorite businesses.

All you need is 30 seconds to search at GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov for unclaimed cash or assets," Smith said.

Administered by Smith, Great Iowa Treasure Hunt is Iowa's only legitimate source for unclaimed property. Unclaimed property includes, but is not limited to, forgotten checking and savings accounts, uncashed checks, lost stocks, life insurance policies, utility security deposits and contents from abandoned safe deposit boxes.

When businesses and entities are unable to contact the rightful owner of a property, it is reported to the State as unclaimed. Great Iowa Treasure Hunt tries to locate the owner or heir of the assets so individuals can collect what is rightfully theirs.

"Returning money to rightful owners and heirs is what Great Iowa Treasure Hunt is all about," concluded Smith. "After a record-breaking reporting season, more names than ever before have been added or our list. Even if you've checked for your name in the past, check our website again."