$11.1 million remains unclaimed in Tri-parishes

Just in time for the holidays, Louisiana Treasurer John Kennedy is trying to deliver some extra cash to its rightful owners.

In the Tri-parishes, approximately $11.1 million has gone unclaimed, according to Sarah Mulhearn, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Treasury. In Terrebonne Parish, $3.25 million is awaiting its owners; $6.4 million in Lafourche Parish; and $1.45 million in St. Mary Parish.

Kennedy is urging residents to visit the state Treasury’s Web site to see if they are due any unclaimed money.

“Our staff will be working overtime to process claims this holiday season and will put a rush on anything filed over the next few weeks,” he said in a release. “We can’t guarantee an exact date when your check will arrive in the mail, but we pledge to do everything we can to produce a quick turnaround on your claim.”

The state Treasury is holding more than $330 million in unclaimed property – including money from uncashed payroll checks, old bank accounts, royalties, utility deposits, interest payments, stock certificates and life insurance proceeds.

According to Kennedy, one in six Louisiana residents has unclaimed money listed with the state. The average refund is $200 to $300, he said.

Before money can be released, an individual’s claim must be verified. A Social Security card, driver’s license or other form of identification is required.

“The fastest and easiest way for us to process a claim is if we have a Social Security number and an address, but other documentation will work as well,” Kennedy said. “The sooner you can log on to our Web site or dial our toll-free hotline, the quicker you can receive your money.”

To search the database, visit www.latreasury.com or call toll-free 1-888-925-4127.