The state has $12 billion in unclaimed funds that it wants to give back to its rightful owners, who can search for their name online, call the Comptroller’s Office or attend an upcoming event, although the closest one is tomorrow in Brooklyn.
“The money belongs to New Yorkers. We want to give it back,” Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said in a statement.
Banks, insurance companies, utilities, investment companies and many other businesses are required under state law to forward inactive accounts to the state, according to the comptroller, whose office is the custodian of the money. It is used by state as part of the general fund until it is claimed.
People who are owed money can submit a claim online. If the account being claimed is not eligible to be submitted online, for example if there are joint owners or deceased owners, claimants can complete the form online, print it and mail it in. People who don’t find their name on the list of unclaimed funds but believe they are owed money can contact DiNapoli’s office for a more thorough search.
For more information, visit the comptroller’s website, call 800-221-9311 or attend an outreach event.
