Live in Oregon? You May Have Unclaimed Free Money!

I once did this in Washington and lo and behold, The State Of Washington had a few bucks for me. Oregon is now sending current and former Oregonians checks from their unclaimed property program. You might be getting a check from Oregon and didn't even realize it!

Approximately $5 million will be sent to current and former Oregonians this fall when the state Unclaimed Property Program initiates the distribution of unclaimed funds.

Here is the press release from the Unclaimed Property Program that could you get some money from Oregon:

Beginning in mid-October, people will begin to receive letters informing them of the forthcoming checks. The initial letter will be followed by a subsequent letter and check-in in early November.

The checks are funds--referred to as unclaimed property--that have been reported to the state by companies and organizations that do business with Oregonians and have been unable to return the money to the correct owner.

Common examples of unclaimed property include uncashed checks, forgotten bank accounts, security deposits, tax refunds, credit balances, investment accounts, payroll checks, refunds, and more.

Typically, people need to file a claim with the unclaimed property program to receive the funds they are owed. However, given the unprecedented financial uncertainties and difficulties many are facing, the state has determined, for the first time ever, the funds will be directly mailed to the correct owner.

Checks distributed will vary in amount between $50 - $2,500, depending on the amount of unclaimed property each recipient is owed and based on criteria described at unclaimed.oregon.gov.

The Unclaimed Property Program advises people who receive letters about the forthcoming checks to wait for the checks to arrive, as filing a claim may delay processing by 6 to 7 months.

Questions about unclaimed funds can be directed to the Oregon Unclaimed Property Program via email, claims@dsl.state.or.us, or phone, (503)986–5251 or (503)986-5200.