Et cetera : Treasurer Fitzgerald: A New Years Resolution for all Iowans

State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald has a New Year's resolution for everyone – prevent your money from becoming unclaimed property. "The Great Iowa Treasure Hunt has become a very successful program," said Fitzgerald. "Each year, we return millions of dollars in unclaimed property to the rightful owners. As Iowans make resolutions to lose weight, spend more time with family, and travel more, they should also make financial resolutions. That's why we are offering a few tips to ensure that your assets never become part of the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt."

Tips to Prevent your Assets from Becoming Unclaimed Property

"Sometimes people move, switch jobs, change banks and just forget about a safe deposit box, bank account, or pay check. Losing track of your assets is more common than you think," Fitzgerald explained. Listed below are tips to help keep property from becoming lost in the future.

• Keep accurate, written, and regularly updated financial records and store them in a safe location.

• List all bank accounts, stock certificates, insurance policies, utility and other deposits, and your safe deposit box number and keep them with your other financial records.

• Promptly use gift cards and cash or deposit all checks, money orders and other similar financial instruments.

• Do not let savings and other accounts remain idle. Be sure to complete a transaction periodically to keep the account active.

• Respond to requests from financial institutions or companies for confirmation of account ownership.

• If you move or your name changes, make sure to notify every institution you do business with of your new address or name.

• Prepare, file, and regularly update a will listing the disposition of your assets after death. Make sure someone has a copy.

What is Unclaimed Property?

Unclaimed property refers to money and other assets held by financial institutions or companies that have lost contact with the owner. State law requires these institutions and companies to annually report unclaimed property to the State Treasurer's Office. The assets are then held until the owner or heir of the property is found. Common forms of unclaimed property include savings or checking accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, life insurance policies, utility security deposits, and safe deposit box contents.

Check to See if you have Unclaimed Property

Treasurer Fitzgerald created the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt in 1983 as a way to return unclaimed property to Iowans. Check to see if you have money coming to you today at greatiowatreasurehunt.com. 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.