How to Find Unclaimed Money in Chicago

Businesses in Chicago must report unclaimed property (such as forgotten paychecks, bonds, utility deposits, insurance payments and bank holdings) to the state of Illinois every year. If you live in the Windy City, you can do an online search to see if the state is holding any of your money. If the money owed is less than $5 or dates back to before 1992, it will not be in the state's online database. You must fill out a general inquiry form in order to find your money.

Things You'll Need

• none

Instructions

1. Visit the Illinois State Treasurer's website to find unclaimed property for all of Illinois, including the Chicago area. Input your last name into the database and "Chicago" in the "City" field. Click on "Search Properties."

2. Click the check box next to the unclaimed funds that belong to you. Then, click "Claim Properties."

3. Fill out all of the required information on the next screen. You have to provide your name, address, social security number and a phone number. Click "Print Form" or choose "Request by Mail" to have the form mailed to you. This will generate a claim.

4. Fill out the claim form and have it notarized. Mail it to the state treasurer's office along with the required paperwork. It can take up to 12 weeks for your unclaimed property papers to be processed. You will then be contacted regarding your claim.

Tips & Warnings

• Copy the completed form and save it for your records.

• Never pay to locate or claim property if you live in Chicago. Unclaimed property searches are free in the state of Illinois.

References

• Illinois State Treasurer: Cash Dash