29-01-2025
Some Pennsylvania residents to receive unexpected checks, here's why
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) — More than 8,000 Pennsylvanians will soon receive unexpected checks as the state launches its first-ever automatic unclaimed property return program, Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced Tuesday, Jan. 28.
The initiative, called Pennsylvania Money Match, eliminates the need for recipients to file claims or submit paperwork. The first batch of letters, notifying residents of their upcoming payments, has been sent, with checks totaling over $2 million set to arrive in about 45 days.
'This is a truly historic day,' Garrity said. 'For the first time ever, we're returning unclaimed property to hardworking Pennsylvanians without requiring them to file a claim or submit any paperwork at all. We truly cut red tape out of state government – and how often does that happen?'
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Approved unanimously by the General Assembly and signed into law in July, Money Match allows the state to automatically return single-owner properties valued at $500 or less after verifying the rightful owners. At least 14 other states have implemented similar programs.
'This Saturday is National Unclaimed Property Day, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate than by sending out the first Money Match letters,' Garrity said. 'But even if you don't get a letter, it's still easy to see if you have any unclaimed property available! Just visit our website and search for your name.'
Treasury plans to send out at least three batches of Money Match letters and checks in 2025. Larger or more complex claims will still require traditional filing.
'This will be an ongoing effort,' Garrity said. 'This money doesn't belong to the state. It belongs to Pennsylvania families, and I want to get it back to them!'
More than one in ten Pennsylvanians is owed part of the state's $4.5 billion in unclaimed property. Since taking office, Garrity has returned more than $700 million and has implemented multiple improvements to the unclaimed property program, including a total system upgrade, a fast-track process for many claims, and direct deposit payments for eligible claimants.
Residents can search for unclaimed funds at
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