The Michigan Department of Treasury has revamped its website to make it easier for residents to check if they have unclaimed property.
Upgrades to the Michigan Unclaimed Property website include "an updated design, highlighted by refreshed colors, better usability and easier-to-follow directions for claiming property," according to a release.
"I encourage individuals and business representatives to visit our refreshed website to see if we may be holding property in their name or in the name of their business," said Terry Stanton, who oversees Michigan's Unclaimed Property Program. "Our unclaimed property database is updated throughout the year, so just like spring cleaning, an annual check of our site is always a good idea."
What is the Unclaimed Property Program?
Millions of dollars in assets get turned over to Michigan Unclaimed Property once they are considered to be lost or stolen.
These funds include uncashed checks, dormant bank accounts, stock certificates and valuables left in abandoned safe deposit boxes.
More than $150 million was returned to rightful owners or their heirs in the last fiscal year, and more than $675 million was returned in the last five years, according to the department.
How do I check if I have unclaimed money?
To see if you have any unclaimed property, click here to visit the Michigan Unclaimed Property website.
You'll need to enter your last name or business name to begin searching. You can also add your first name, a city and a zip code to narrow down the search.
How do I file a claim?
Click here for step-by-step instructions on how to claim any missing funds.
Once you file your claim, you should receive an email within 24 hours. It will notify you if supporting documentation is needed to validate the claim.
To check the status of a claim, visit here.
For more information about the unclaimed property program, visit here.
Michigan Treasurer Rachael Eubanks also released an episode of her "Treasury Talk" podcast recently that covers how to find your missing money with Michigan Unclaimed Property.