Delawareans who might have unclaimed property in the state now have a more convenient way to check.
The Department of Finance is launching a new website where people or business owners can search state records for dormant bank accounts or untouched stock options in their name.
Much of the process used to be paper-based, with the state taking out several page-long ads in newspapers to reach people who may be owed money.
Deputy Finance Secretary and state Escheator David Gregor says might have discouraged people from even searching for their name.
“More and more people are just used to conducting any kind of activity, commerce online and their expectation is they want that level of convenience and that’s, really, what I think we’re providing,” said Gregor.
Over the two most recent fiscal years and the past few months of this year, Delaware has paid out more that $225 million in cash and securities, according to Gregor.
“That’s a big number for a small state like Delaware and I think that’s something that people need to understand that this, it’s worth taking a look because we’re really getting a lot of money back to people,” said Gregor.
That money otherwise reverts to the state’s General Fund, which is one of the biggest revenue streams – bringing in about $515 million during the most recent fiscal year.
Once you file a claim, you’ll get more specific information about the account and instructions on how to prove you’re the rightful owner.
You can run your name through the database at the new website.