State Treasurer Clint Zweifel has checked his list and found several “Elves,” a few “Christmas’s” and even some “Claus’s” with unclaimed property.
Zweifel reminds Missourians he has almost $9 million in unclaimed gift cards and gift certificates.
“The holiday season is just around the corner which means many of us are getting started with our shopping lists for family and friends,” Zweifel said. “I encourage everyone to check my Unclaimed Property list for their name particularly if you have old gift cards or certificates around the house from holidays past. You can search anytime at ShowMeMoney.com.”
Of the $926 million in unclaimed property currently held by Zweifel, nearly $9 million comes from gift cards and certificates. Often, these instruments are turned over as unclaimed property to Zweifel’s office, and can then be claimed by the original owner or an heir. If someone believes an old or expired gift card may have become unclaimed property, they should first check with the business from which it was issued to see if it is redeemable. If the business will not redeem it, owners should then check ShowMeMoney.com to see if their name is listed. Not all credit from gift cards and certificates is turned over with account owner contact information, so having the physical card or certificate may help an individual claim their property.
Zweifel also created an unclaimed property charitable donation program in 2013. Individuals with unclaimed property — including old or expired gift cards — may choose to donate their claim directly to any of 20 participating charitable organizations.
“Every dollar counts this time of year and the average unclaimed property return is $300,” Zweifel said. “Whether your claim is a few cents or thousands of dollars, you also have the opportunity to donate to 20 charities doing great work here in Missouri. You can learn more at ShowMeMoney.com.”
Since January 2009, Zweifel has returned more than $258 million to more than 800,000 account owners. Missourians may search for unclaimed property 24 hours a day at ShowMeMoney.com, and even begin and track the progress of a claim online. Individuals may also sign up to receive an email notification when new unclaimed property arrives and matches their information.