Iowa State Treasurer, Michael Fitzgerald, has announced more than $18.5 million of unclaimed property was returned to its rightful owners through the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt in Fiscal Year (FY) 2021. The program was created by Fitzgerald and his staff in 1983 and has returned more than $304 million in the nearly four decades since. Fitzgerald says, “With the complexities of the pandemic, it comes as no surprise this past year was difficult for many Iowans. The average claim amount paid during this fiscal year was $925.75, so it’s great to know we were able to provide a financial relief when many needed it most.” Unclaimed property is defined as money or other financial assets that are considered lost or abandoned and often include forgotten bank accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, life insurance policies or safe deposit boxes. While pleased with FY21’s results, Fitzgerald says they have a long way to go with over $423 million waiting to be claimed. To check for unclaimed property you may be entitled to, visit GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov.