If you ever wonder if you left some cash in an old bank account or a if company refunded money that you never collected, it's now easier than ever to find out. 

The Ohio Division of Unclaimed Funds has launched a new online system designed to streamline the process for Ohioans to find and recover their share of the state's $4.8 billion in unclaimed funds.

The division, part of the Ohio Department of Commerce, announced Friday that the upgraded technology aims to enhance efficiency and functionality for both individuals and businesses.

Unclaimed funds held by the state originate from sources such as dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, stocks and bonds, utility deposits, and unclaimed wages. These funds never expire and are safeguarded by the division until they are claimed. In 2024, the division returned over $149.6 million through 26,420 claims.

The new system, accessible via the division’s website at com.ohio.gov/UnclaimedFunds, allows users to search for unclaimed funds, upload the required documentation, and track the status of their claims online. It also provides improved communication with claimants regarding any missing information needed to complete the review process.

Individuals who would like to search for unclaimed funds owed to them or their loved ones should complete the following three-step process:

1. Search for unclaimed funds and generate a claim form by accessing the new system at com.ohio.gov/UnclaimedFunds.
2. Review and gather the required documentation.
3. Submit the claim form and any documents by mail or upload them directly through the system.

"This new system allows us to verify claimants’ information once it’s provided to us and, in some cases, automatically approve some claims, which means that more claimants could see faster payout,” said Division Superintendent Akil Hardy in a statement. "We paid out $149 million last year to Ohioans and look forward to increasing that number with our new system.”

The updates also benefit businesses that report unclaimed funds to the division. They can now create and file their reports directly through the system, including uploading the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) files, creating manual reports, remitting funds, and submitting negative reports. All businesses are required to report unclaimed funds annually, even if there are none to report, according to Ohio Revised Code 169.

Hardy said the upgrades are a direct response to feedback from consumers and businesses and align with the agency's goal of using technology to improve service quality.

Individuals searching for unclaimed funds for themselves or deceased loved ones can follow a three-step process: search for funds and generate a claim form on the division’s website, gather required documentation, and submit the claim form and documents online or by mail. While the typical review period is 120 days, the division anticipates the new system will allow for more claims to be processed.

To help Ohio consumers and business owners understand how to navigate the new system, the Division will host the following free webinars and live demonstrations.

• Business Owners Webinar – Wednesday, April 9, from Noon to 1 p.m. Click here to register.
• Facebook Live Demo for Claimants – Thursday, April 10, at 10 a.m.
• Live LinkedIn Demo for Business Owners – Thursday, April 10, at 10:30 a.m.
• Consumer Webinar with the BBB – Wednesday, April 16, from 10 to 11 a.m. Click here to register.

The division emphasized that online safety and security were a priority in the system’s development. The website features a .gov URL, indicating an official government resource. Ohioans are cautioned to be wary of unsolicited calls or messages requesting personal information related to unclaimed funds. While the division does register "finders" who can assist with claims for a fee, individuals contacted by a finder should verify their registration with the division.

Additional information about the system enhancements can be found on the Ohio Department of Commerce’s "Protecting What Matters" podcast.