LANSING — The Michigan Department of Treasury is encouraging residents to check for unclaimed property as National Unclaimed Property Day is observed Sunday, February 1.
Treasury officials say millions of dollars in lost or abandoned assets are currently being held by the state, including dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, stock certificates and items left in safe deposit boxes.
Treasury staff overseeing the Unclaimed Property Program say the database is updated multiple times each year, and residents are encouraged to search even if they have checked before.
Searches can be done online through Michigan’s Unclaimed Property website, where users can securely upload documents to verify claims. People who have lived outside Michigan can also search multiple states through a national database.
There is no charge to search for or claim property. Claims can also be made by phone during weekday business hours.
Last year, Michigan returned $164 million to rightful owners and heirs. More than $675 million has been returned over the past five years.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed Sunday as Michigan’s Unclaimed Property Day.