DES MOINES – State Treasurer Roby Smith and Representative Vondran worked together to help an Iowan’s family reunite with over $317,000 that was being held in Great Iowa Treasure Hunt. “This is a story we often see when funds are turned over to Great Iowa Treasure Hunt,” Smith said. “An individual passed away and the family wasn’t aware there were the outstanding accounts. This created a perfect opportunity for us to work with Representative Vondran since the last known address was in his district.”
Great Iowa Treasure Hunt is the State’s only legitimate program for reuniting lost funds with individuals and business in Iowa. Each year, money and other assets are turned over to the State Treasurer’s Office after they have been deemed unclaimed after a specific amount of time. The Office then holds the funds indefinitely in Great Iowa Treasure Hunt until the owner of the fund or assets come forward.
“It was great to partner with Treasurer Smith,” Vondran stated. “We were able to work together to get a list of individuals in my district, which provided me an opportunity to reach out to the family and help put them in touch with the team in the Treasurer’s Office.”
Great Iowa Treasure Hunt has returned over $384 million, and over $566 million is waiting to be reunited with rightful owners. Examples of how items or money may end up in Great Iowa Treasure Hunt include forgotten checking and savings accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, life insurance policies, utility refunds and contents of safe deposit boxes.
“I look forward to working together with Representative Vondran, other legislators and government entities to help return money to past and present Iowans,” Smith added. “If you currently live, or have ever lived, in Iowa, I encourage you to visit GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov to search for your name, the name of loved ones or businesses and non-profits you are a part of. It’s secure, free and an easy-to-use website!”
For additional information, connect with the Treasurer on Facebook, Instagram and X or visit GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov.
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