Ohio Unclaimed Funds: Find Out Today if the State Owes You Money

Billions in unclaimed funds are waiting for Ohio residents—here’s how to find out if any of it is yours and why the pool is suddenly in the headlines. Ohio’s $4.8 billion pot of forgotten cash The Ohio Department of Commerce reports it is safeguarding roughly $4.8 billion in unclaimed property, ranging from dormant bank accounts and uncashed checks to utility deposits and stock dividends. In 2024 alone, the state returned a record $149.6 million to rightful owners through 26,420 claims. New fast-track online claim system To speed up payouts, the Division of Unclaimed Funds launched a revamped portal that lets users: • Search the database by name or business • Upload proof of identity and ownership directly online • Track claim status in real time State officials say some straightforward claims are now automatically approved, shaving weeks off the normal 120-day review window. Step-by-step: How to claim unclaimed money in Ohio 1. Go to com.ohio.gov/UnclaimedFunds and enter your legal name or a deceased relative’s name. 2. If you see a match, select “File Claim” to generate a claim form. 3. Scan or photograph required documents (e.g., driver’s license, proof of address, probate paperwork for heirs) and upload them through the portal. 4. Check your email or dashboard for approval notices and payment updates. There is no fee to file on your own; state-registered “finders” may charge up to 10 percent if you choose to hire one. Why unclaimed funds are in the news now Ohio’s new two-year budget reallocated $1.7 billion of the dormant money—including $600 million toward a new Cleveland Browns stadium—sparking debate over whether the state should use property that technically belongs to private citizens for public projects. Lawmakers argue the transfer won’t affect individual payouts, because claims are honored on demand, but critics contend it creates political incentives to delay reunification efforts. Upcoming help sessions The Commerce Department is hosting free webinars and live social-media demos throughout July for both consumers and businesses. Dates and registration links are posted on the Unclaimed Funds homepage. Tips to avoid scammers • Only use the official .gov website—look for “https://com.ohio.gov” in the address bar. • Ignore unsolicited calls or texts requesting Social Security numbers or bank details. • Verify “finder” registration numbers with the Division before signing any contract. Bottom line Whether you’re hunting for a long-lost paycheck or tidying up a relative’s estate, checking for unclaimed funds in Ohio takes minutes and could put unexpected cash back in your pocket. With billions available and a streamlined claims portal, now is the smartest time to search “unclaimed funds Ohio” and see if your name is on the list.