COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Ohio Department of Commerce reported an 83% increase in claims for unclaimed funds from June 30 to July 6.
During that period, 153,561 claims were filed, compared to a total of 325,646 claims since June 1, according to the department.
The spike in claims coincides with the passage of a state budget provision allocating $1.7 billion, or 20% of the unclaimed funds, for constructing a new stadium for the Cleveland Browns and other sports facility upgrades.
A lawsuit was filed last week against the state, arguing that the use of these funds is unconstitutional.
Many Ohioans have expressed their opinions on social media about the plan to use unclaimed funds. Several plaintiffs in the lawsuit described the process of claiming funds as challenging. However, Misti Sims of Columbus found the process straightforward.
“The instructions were clear, and I followed them step by step,” Sims said. “I had some additional steps because of the source of the money, but it was from an insurance claim three years ago, and I eventually received every penny.”
Sims claimed $1,087 from a car insurance claim and also discovered her sister had over $300 in unclaimed funds. Sims printed her sister’s claim, requiring only a signature and submission.
“It was very easy,” Sims said. “Everything’s online, and it guides you through the process. It’s your money, so go get it. I don’t think my money should be used to build a stadium.”
The Ohio Department of Commerce also noted a doubling of website visitors from May to June, indicating a strong interest among Ohioans in claiming their funds.
According to the Statehouse, the $1.7 billion will be withdrawn from unclaimed funds older than ten years on Jan. 1, 2026. The state assured that future claims will be honored.
“What are you waiting for? It’s your money. Go get it,” Sims said.
For information on how to search for and claim funds, visit the Ohio Department of Commerce website.