Many Iowans are happy to be back at the Iowa State Fair this year and State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald shares their excitement. “Fairgoers can visit the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt booth in the Varied Industries building to search for their unclaimed property,” said Fitzgerald. “Over the years, we have had tremendous success in reuniting people with their lost treasurers at the fair and we’re looking forward to being back and continuing the success.”
Visitors at the 2019 Iowa State Fair discovered over 3,600 unclaimed properties, totaling more than $343,000. In addition to their own names, fairgoers can also search the list for the names of family, friends and local businesses. “What many may not realize is anyone can have unclaimed property owed to them,” continued Fitzgerald. “If you find the name of someone you know, our fair booth staff can help you share their unclaimed property information by email.”
The Great Iowa Treasure Hunt has been safeguarding and returning unclaimed property since Fitzgerald created the program in 1983. Unclaimed property refers to money and other financial assets that are considered lost or abandoned when an owner cannot be located after a specific period of inactivity. State law requires these institutions and companies to annually report unclaimed property to the State Treasurer’s Office. Forgotten bank accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, unpaid life insurance policies and safe deposit box contents are all examples of unclaimed property.
Stop by the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt booth at the Iowa State Fair, August 12-22 in the Varied Industries Building. The building will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visit GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov to begin your search. Keep up with all of Treasurer Fitzgerald’s programs on Facebook and Twitter.
